Unlimited Motherhood: Overcome 12 Limits That Overwhelm and Conflict Our Hearts

by Jessica Hurlbut

Torn. Isn't this how many moms feel? Torn between serving God and serving family. We love Jesus and our role as a wife and mom, but fulfilling our God-given dreams doesn't seem humanly possible. Amid the chaos of meal prep, diaper changes, and grocery runs, there isn't much time or energy to spare. But what if the limits on our lives are all in our heads?

With humor, vulnerability, and stories of her own limited life as mom of five--two of whom struggle with severe autism--pastor and podcaster Jessica Hurlbut ignites hope in hearts of overwhelmed moms to see that forces outside you can't stop the God within you. Revealing 12 limits that hinder mothers--like exhaustion, distractions, and disillusionment--Jessica shows how to overcome them, empowering you to

· respond in obedience rather than react in emotion to limitations
· implement practical steps to move beyond your perceived limits
· experience God using you even in the crazy season of motherhood

If the Holy Spirit lives inside of you, nothing can stop you when you're fully surrendered to him.

Genres: Parenting

208 pages, Paperback

Published March 19, 2024

Reviews

[Amanda (BookLoverAmanda) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unlimited Motherhood - Jessica Hurlbut - 5 Stars - Releases March 19th

BLOG REVIEW POST HERE

As a Autism Mama to a beautiful 5 year old boy, this book was everything I needed in this season of life. Relatable, understanding, faith-filled, vulnerable and wonderful. I often need to remind myself Jesus knows exactly where we are in this moment. Jessica's book reminds me again that He is wanting us to come to Him. He hasn't left us in the lonely seasons of life when your struggles as a special needs Mom come to the forefront and you feel like you can't leave your home. He hasn't left us when you compare your life to the other families all over social media and wonder if you're not doing enough. He hasn't left us when our fear feels paralyzing for our children's future. He's right there with you in the middle of EVERYTHING and this book reminded me once again, how JESUS is right there in the midst of it all. Every struggle. Every worry. Every fear. We desperately need Him every day. We are fully loved by Him. Fully known. And this book has 12 beautiful chapters that provide insights to everyday practices we can do as mothers for our families and how the Lord can use us even in seasons of isolation, hiding or loneliness.

I often feel the Mom guilt and like I am not doing enough for my son - this book also reminds me: Every one of us is in need of God's grace and we all struggle in being parents. We are doing the best we can.

My son's Autism diagnosis has been a rollercoaster of emotions. We don't know what his future holds but we continue to work with so many at school to help him be the most successful. We have good days and bad days. This book reminds me that "God is on the battlefield with us in every situation. Jesus fought for us 2,000 years ago and won. He will supply the strength we need to stand." Reading Jessica's stories about her children's autism diagnosis and the journey she and her husband went through has been extremely relatable and encouraging to me.

I am so grateful for the opportunity to read Jessica's book and believe fully it is a must read, Christian non-fiction for all Mama's no matter what stage of parenting you are in. Specifically special needs Mama's like myself will find extra encouragement, but I truly believe all Mama's will appreciate this book.

Thank you to Bethany House and Net Galley for a copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Heather Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crying through the final chapter while my son's in speech therapy. This book is so, so good. It's encouraging and challenging and is more about Unlimited Christianity and not at all about how to mother. I got so much out of it.

"If we spend our lives trying to save our kids, they were rely on us rather than their Savior."

"Jesus met the disciples in their fear. Jesus didn't expect his followers to muster up the courage to save the world. Instead he came to them in their fear and comforted them with his peace."

"Fear shrinks God, and with a God that small, we scramble to help him. Faith magnifies God, and with a God that big, we can rest knowing he's got this."

I underlined so many more quotes!

I highly recommend you pick up Unlimited Motherhood by Jessica Hurlbut, out now from Bethany House. I got mine from Baker Book House.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this. It was a solid four stars until the very end, and then that last chapter made me cry. It had me wiping my nose and dribbling tears on my sweatshirt sleeves. Whenever a book makes me cry it gets an automatic five stars from me. Well done.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found Jessica on Instagram a few months back and was immediately hooked on her God inspired content. She is an amazing writer and I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It is a quick, easy read full of spiritual wisdom and experiences she shares to support and encourage women and moms to reach their full potential in Christ. Actually, anyone could benefit from spending a few minutes reading this gem. I already ordered a copy for my niece, a young mom doing Christian ministry. But, I wouldn't hesitate to gift this to anyone desiring to live an authentic Christ centered life. Thanks Jessica! I hope you are led to write more books in the future. Until then, I will continue to follow your lovely devotional on Insta!

[Michelle Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an incredible read! This is one of those books where you don’t want to put it down but also want to take your time and really digest every part of it. Jessica’s way of writing feels like you’re simply talking to a good friend. She weaves personal, inspiring and relatable stories with heartfelt spiritual advice. I would recommend this book to all women in all stages of life. Definitely a must read!

[Kristine Mackenthun · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a must read for everyone, not just mothers. It is filled with God's Truth and offers doable steps to walk in obedience. You will laugh, cry and rethink your relationship with God.

[Joyce Mertz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the book and highly recommend it to anyone, even if you’re not a mom or like me a mom of adult children. The authenticity and heart of it speaks volumes. There are treasures to be found in every chapter along with a prayer and an encouraging do this section.
The author Jessica Hurlbut is a mom of 5, 2 of which are severely autistic and 2 adopted. Being open, honest and vulnerable Jess shows how God shows up every time she turns to Him and trusts Him. She quotes as a teenager “she wanted to be a nobody from nowhere who does crazy things for God”. Then she says “life happened”. But God wasn’t and isn’t finished with Jess and He’s not finished with us either. I encourage/challenge you to read this book, see what God wants to say to you through her message and be brave, take a leap of faith.
Release date is March 19th.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so happy I decided to read Unlimited Motherhood: Overcome 12 Limits That overwhelm and Conflict Our Hearts. this book has had all of my attention, I can’t set it down!!! I can’t even begin to explain how incredibly inspiring and REAL this book is! Jessica shares personal and inspiring stories about her own life and struggles... If you are a mother, a stepmother, an aunt, a sister, or literally any woman who feels limited due to the struggles life throws at you I highly recommend this book, take the time to read this I promise you’ll be happy you did!

[Charity · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating!
This book will challenge you and encourage you to deepen your relationship with God. If you’re a mom and or wife, you will have many moments that you resonate with. And if you’re neither, this will book will still resonate with you. Basically, If you’re a live and breathing, this book is for you! Finished it in 2 days. You can feel the Holy Spirit through Jess’ words. I can’t wait to see the impact this book makes and the people’s lives that will be changed because of it. The ripple effect is going to be amazing!! I wish I could give the book 10 stars!!

[Sarah Hopper · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was very inspirational. The author has tackled the problems that all mothers feel. Jessica shares raw, emotional events from her life that are very moving. She provides excerpts from her own life and provides hope for all. The book includes simple prayers and steps that everyone can take to lead a better life. I am not a Christian book reader but I couldn't stop reading. She is gifted with words and her message is powerful.

[Vonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was written from the heart! True life experiences that all us moms have dealt with a one time or another. Lessons we have all learned but

[Bernadette · Rating 5 out of 5]

In these "hidden years", there is so much joy to find.

[Allison Pelkey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I laughed, I cried, I felt convicted, I felt the holy spirit! Even if you are not a mother currently this book would still be an amazing experience. I find it amazing that it doesn't just feel like I am reading but I feel that I am sitting down with a cup of coffee and talking to friend. There is so much passion and love all throughout this book! It's a must read!

[Cathy Brody · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book for everyone, not just women who find themselves struggling with the pressures of motherhood. Jess writes in an inviting and engaging way that lets us all know that we are not alone and encourages us to be open to what God sees for our lives…things we are often blinded to and frightened of. A truly moving and thought provoking book. Thank you for sharing your heart Jess.

[Samantha Stroupe · Rating 5 out of 5]

While this is another Christian Women’s book, it isn’t your normal fluff. This book is full of little nuggets of wisdom and many moments that make you stop and think and pray. Jessica did a great job sharing her story while also giving sound scripture and knowledge. And, even though this books says motherhood in the title, it’s really for any woman of any age at any place in her life.

[Susan Lucas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unlimited Motherhood is a great read! Jessica Hurlbut writes descriptions of everyday struggles with precision and humor. Visualizing the words on her pages brings me the utterance of ugh, knit brows, and smiles. I love her "Pray This" and "Do This" prompts. Her pages are filled with transformative thoughts that remind you that the power of God is within you. Ladies, you should pre-ordered today!

[Lora · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished this book and it was amazing! I love the way Jessica writes in such a vulnerable way and then punches you with encouragement and truth. I’m so inspired to live bolder and without excuses!

[Rebecca Nolley · Rating 5 out of 5]

So so very good! Jessica is an amazing writer whose passion for God and His people resonates through each page. Unlimited contains deep Biblical truths intertwined with personal stories that will both encourage and challenge the reader to live a life surrendered to God and His will.

[Brianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I laughed, I cried. I love her raw, real approach. This book wasn't glossed over telling me how to be a better church person, but making me feel seen and heard. She gives practical application and reflection.

[Rebecca Mcdermott · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started this on the airplane and finished it before leaving the last airport. I couldnt put it down. I reread the last few pages again this morning. There are no words that can capture this book. There were moments I chuckled and a lot of moments I cried. This book will undoubtedly change many peoples lives in the way they look at life.

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5🌟
I ended up really liking this book, although I will say that the first chapter two I wasn't a huge fan. I don't know if it was the author's personality, you can tell she really loves the Lord, but she definitely comes across as a little aggressive maybe,🤷‍♀️ and some of her comments were almost made to sound like she was trying to be cool, but sometimes it came across as a little irreverent at least to me.(She mentioned in the book that she is a youth pastor, so maybe that's where the "cool" comes in.) She also says some things that really made me think and made me ask myself are there areas in my life where I am limiting God or limiting how God can use me.

"God's voice isn't a treasure that few discover but rather an accessible relationship available to all."

"With God nothing is ever wasted."

"Surrender starts when we make the conscious choice to drop our seed in the ground and bury it."

"Self-pity is self-worship in disguise."

"Stop magnifying your problems and start to magnifying God."

"Our weakness is a permission slip for God to show off in our lives."

"A mistake that makes you humble is better than an achievement that makes you arrogant."

"Troubles are often the tools by which God fashions us for better things." Henry Ward Beecher

[Megan Hopper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unlimited Motherhood is a beautiful picture into the hearts of special needs families, families who adopt, and just plain parenting. The things we think and feel are brought to light in this book, and then filtered through Christ. Whether you read it to sit back and appreciate Jessica's story and her journey in faith, or you read it on a search for your own direction and purpose, Unlimited Motherhood will be a blessing to you! Thank you Jessica for sharing your story bravely, it is such an encouragement.

[victoria donahue · Rating 5 out of 5]

I plan to review this amazing book in chunks of chapters as I read it, not only because I am too busy to read it all at once, but because aftee starting it, I know that I don't want to miss a chance to share everything I have to say. As a working Mom who reads a book appox. once a decade, I don't find myself writing many, or any book reviews. Thinking about it, I never have, not even one, but this book is so different and deserves all the ATTENTIOM and sharing it can get. So, I have read Chapter 1 and 2 and despite being a Mom to a beautiful little girl, the first two chapters address the 'You' before all that as Jessica writes beautifully about her own experience in her young adult years. I feel so strongly I found this book, (or it me) for a reason. It is extremely relatable on an almost uncanny level. Jessica discusses very personal topics I think many of us experience and need guidance concerning. Some that resonated with me are below...

"I didn't trust anyone"
Refusal to let go of things that might not be part of God's plan any longer.
"Fear is the great resistance"
Spritual Frustration.
Faith being a giant trust fall
The Holy Spirit "He makes his home in us"
"Guide me into the truth"
"Instead he came to them in their fear"

This book in two chapters, has been a huge validation for me, of what I knew somehow, but couldn't make sense of definitively. We all have times in our life that bring us to our knees. I love the poem Footprints, ever since I was a child I've been drawn to it and really felt it's message, which is that at the most difficult times in our lives when we feel most alone and unable to go on, it is then God carries us. The first two chapters of this book about Jessica's experience, for me, illuminated many these moments in my past as well as present. I know for sure the moment I let the Holy Spirit take the lead and finally let go of control.

This book so far is like a tool that puts the missing pieces together, in the most true and honest perspective. The tiny little moments, feelings, and inclinations we feel, the "coincidences" that make us wonder 'What does this mean?' 'Was that a sign?' How absolutely amazing and comforting to realize all the moments that God and the Holy Spirit played a part in my life. I just couldn't or wouldn't see that as I was living through them. This review is getting super long, but lastly I want to say that for anyone considering reading this book, Do It! I can feel God speaking through Jessica's words and I can't wait to read the rest.

[Dani Bowden · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a mom who longs to see God use you to advance His Kingdom in practical, everyday ways, yet you feel completely overwhelmed and maxed out by what is already on your plate, not to mention you feel utterly unqualified to do world-changing things for God, then this book will bless you!

Every chapter touched and refreshed my heart in some way as Jessica shared her heart, her life, and her very raw, very real emotions through seasons of despair, overwhelm, and hiddenness. Jesus meets us in our very darkest hours, and when we encounter Him in those seasons, we can come away having found treasure in dark places. Jessica reveals treasures that the Lord has shown her during the seasons of her life. I love that Jess doesn’t beat around the bush. She is honest and direct as she speaks biblical truth, using stories both hilarious and humbling from her own life. This book is a breath of fresh air, a ray of hope for the weary heart, and a fresh revelation for the mom who is wondering how she can make an impact for eternity in the world around her.

If you feel overwhelmed and smothered by life, please pick up a copy of this book and be refreshed! Let God speak to your heart through Unlimited Motherhood as Jessica leads you through super-practical steps you can take (from exactly where you are right now) to become an overcomer and daughter-of-the-King-mom who ministers life to not only your family, but to those around you in your life and community.

[Nancy Hubert268 · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I was taken through the author’s personal, sometimes emotionally raw, and at times, gut-wrenching journey in her unique family circumstances, I was captivated by her honest transparency and vulnerability. Yet through the ups and downs of the “unexpected” I found myself chuckling at her humor, crying in sharing her pain, admiring her perseverance and fortitude as she tackled her fears, overcame obstacles and asked the hard questions. It was easy to be “pulled in” by her stories and identify with many of the questions raised, that, at first, seemed so “upside down” according to world standards, “But God”!

As a mom, grandmother, and presently widow, I found myself going back in time and re-evaluating my own motherhood journey. I could easily identify with some of the limits and fears, we, as moms, place on ourselves.

I highly recommend this book to moms, especially moms with special needs children, grandmothers, fathers, grandfathers and anyone involved with caring for children. Why dads and granddads? Because from this book, they too, will gain wisdom and knowledge that will help them to understand a mom’s fears, joys, and love for their children. Not only that but the love and support from her husband that is evident in this book, is more than noteworthy and a beautiful example for all of us.

One of the many takeaways from reading this book is that I am totally inspired to reach for more, to go higher, to be stretched further and to accomplish more of my purpose in being created!

[Rebecca Jeror · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don’t think this book is just for moms with kids at home, it’s for empty-nesters and grandmas too. I’m sure any adult who wants to truly see ares in their heart that can still grow, will get so much from this book !!
I was especially drawn into the chapter that addressed mom guilt , and after being an empty nester for 17 years , how would I have tears as I connected with this subject, among others ?
Jessica writes, “ So, when you slip into mom-guilt mode, recognize it as a tactic of the enemy to steal your affection from Jesus. Instead of dwelling on all the ways you’ve fallen short, run to his feet and pray for your kids. Our prayers are the track, and his power is the train- no one is going anywhere without it. “.
How much time I’ve wasted regretting things in the past I can’t change. I’m forgiven already . But God loves our kids more than we do, and he can speak into their hearts his love and get through to them when we can not . Live your life for Jesus now, don’t let life pass you by as you dwell on the past.
That was all my take on some of the many things that caiught hold of my heart in this book.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every Mama needs to read this book! I am recommending this book to EVERYONE! I can't stop talking about it. The author reminds us that not only are we mothers, but daughters and disciples of The Most High King.

There was so much depth in her writing. Her writing was relatable and easy to understand. I was captivated by every chapter as I was either laughing or crying my way through! After reading this book I felt seen, known, loved, encouraged and most of all Inspired to deepen my relationship with the Lord even more.

Only the work of the Holy Spirit would allow the author to write a book that could resonate with so many mothers from all walks of life. Especially mamas with special needs kiddos who need extra love and support.

Reading this book felt like the author was writing about my life and the journey the Lord has taken me on over the years. In many ways our journeys have been so similar. I am positive I have highlighted half of this book! There are so many great quotes that were so full of meat that I want to go back and meditate on their meaning longer.

Something deep inside my spirit changed after reading this book. I have been forever changed by her words.

[Val : The Midwest Book Mom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Through Jessica's dose of help, humor, and hope, I was honored to read her story about taking a real leap of faith into trusting the One who loves us most, Jesus. Her words resonated with me as she shared how "our trials don't bring out the best in you or the worst in you; they uncover the real you." I enjoyed reading how each moment in her life reshaped her heart & mind to be like Christ, from the diagnosis of her daughter's autism to the miles running for awareness of children in foster care. Each chapter makes a deep cut into the heart and soul of seeking the truth about where we land in our relationship with the Lord.

" May we stop looking left and right and start looking up and in. The truth is, we don't need to grow taller or wider, but deeper in him."

There's wisdom and truth within these pages, discovered by Jessica through her life that's been in front of us for years. Her story gave me belly-gut laughter, and yet my eyes filled with tears as I was amazed at what God can do that we alone cannot achieve. This book will be unforgettable for me.

[Amy L. Harden · Rating 5 out of 5]

The season of motherhood can be the most overwhelming, time-consuming, and energy-sucking of a woman's life. However, it is also a time of growth, maturing, and blessings. I raised five children in the '90s and early 2000s, and I would have given a million bucks to have a book like "Unlimited Motherhood" to read. It would have reassured me that I was not crazy or a lone soldier in the sea of dirty diapers, toddler tantrums, and teenage angst. Unlimited motherhood focuses on the condition of the mother/woman's heart, mind, and spirit. Each chapter had me rethinking my days as a young mother and even those times today as my children are having children. Jessica's book is for mothers and women of any age and in any season! Each chapter has a personal God-centered story woven in amongst an encouraging message that will make you consider, re-evaluate, or pray on. I highly recommend this book for every mother, grandmother, aunt, relative, or friend who needs to hear God's voice and know that our Lord sees them. I would give it more than five stars. A Must Read will have to do.

[Judith McNees · Rating 5 out of 5]

I share several things in common with Hurlbut (foster and adoptive mom, special needs mom), and at times, it felt as though I could have written this book with different stories. The beauty in it, though, is that you don't have to be a special needs mom to glean wisdom and encouragement from it. This is a real, raw look at the life of a believing mom and how, in this world, we will have tribulations.

Each chapter, Hurlbut gives us honest stories from her life in order to walk with us through those dark times in our own lives that can sometimes try to derail our faith. She doesn't shy away from asking hard questions but always brings it back to Jesus and the hope we find in Him.

I seldom reread books, but this is a keeper, in my opinion. A book to encourage us during the high points and sit with us so that we know we aren't alone in the low moments. More than anything, for me, this book showed me that I'm not the only one who has struggled and that that's okay.