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The Gospel-Centered Mom: The Freeing Truth About What Your Kids Really Need
A mom of two hard-to-handle boys challenges readers to come to terms with the reality that they are not enough to succeed in the daunting task of parenting, which is why they need to seek daily the power of God. Writing with candor and hope-filled truth, Brooke McGlothlin roots her content in Scripture, repeatedly pointing readers back to Jesus to anchor them in hope through the challenges of motherhood."
240 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2017
40 people are currently reading
610 people want to read
About the author
Brooke McGlothlin
37 books81 followersBrooke is the Founder of Million Praying Moms, and author of 8 books, including her latest, Praying for Teen Boys: Partner with God for the Heart of Your Son and Praying Mom: Making Prayer the First and Best Response to Motherhood. She’s a wife and mom to two teenage boys who make their home in the mountains of Appalachia, calling southwestern Virginia home. Learn more about Brooke at www.brookemcglothlin.net.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
December 10, 2017
So, what's an empty-nester to do when the 2017 Challies Christian Reading Challenge calls for a book on parenting? I don't want to read "typical" parenting books, which are often garbage, so I almost decided to skip it because I'm not going to be able read all 104 books anyway. Then I came across this audiobook by the co-founder of The MOB Society. In general, I'm leery of any author who seems to present herself as an expert on parenting while she's still in the midst of it. (I mean, come on, let's wait to see how your kids turn out before you write a book, right?!) But in general I have had positive reactions to audiobooks from Christianaudio.com, so I decided to go for it.
I hadn't listened to it very long before I realized that this book had plenty to say to me as a Christian as well as to women who still have children in the home. These days mothers are being told that they are "enough" for their kids. I get where those people are coming from - mothers are pretty great at beating themselves up, which is unhealthy. The message of this book, though, is that only Christ is enough. Christ doesn't even make YOU enough - only HE is truly "enough." There were many points at which I was surprised at the level of wisdom coming from a such a young (to me, anyway) woman.
The author's thoughts about motherhood and suffering were interesting, and her thoughts about sacrifice reinforced what I had read that same day in a different book about what it really means to be filled with the Spirit. Bonus: she drew from the lives of George Mueller and Elisabeth Elliot for illustrations. Each chapter ended with a "hard truth/beautiful truth" thought that I generally agreed with.
This one is definitely a good read.
I hadn't listened to it very long before I realized that this book had plenty to say to me as a Christian as well as to women who still have children in the home. These days mothers are being told that they are "enough" for their kids. I get where those people are coming from - mothers are pretty great at beating themselves up, which is unhealthy. The message of this book, though, is that only Christ is enough. Christ doesn't even make YOU enough - only HE is truly "enough." There were many points at which I was surprised at the level of wisdom coming from a such a young (to me, anyway) woman.
The author's thoughts about motherhood and suffering were interesting, and her thoughts about sacrifice reinforced what I had read that same day in a different book about what it really means to be filled with the Spirit. Bonus: she drew from the lives of George Mueller and Elisabeth Elliot for illustrations. Each chapter ended with a "hard truth/beautiful truth" thought that I generally agreed with.
This one is definitely a good read.
August 1, 2017
This is such a powerful book. Full of hard truths I needed to be reminded of, it is also full of beautiful truths that were so refreshing and encouraging. This is certainly a Gospel centered book for Gospel centered moms. Definitely one I will keep where I can go back to it again and again.
January 20, 2021
I really enjoyed this. While I didn’t necessarily agree with everything, I think it had a good message for me regarding how to have God leading me in my role as a mother. Motherhood is hard. I thought I could do it with my own strength...until I found out the hard way that I could not. This book really shined a light on how I could change my mind and my heart to find peace and purpose in the wild ride that is motherhood. If you’re struggling as a mom or are looking for something “more”, I’d definitely recommend this book. You’re not meant to be a perfect mom...and you’re definitely not meant to do it alone either.
August 1, 2017
“You don’t need to be enough because Jesus was and is, and will always be enough. You can just be you, and let Jesus be the rest.” -Brooke McGlothlin
For the past eight years, I have struggled with feelings of not being enough for my children. The feelings intensified six years ago after becoming a mother of two and then a year later a mother of three children. It always seems that there is not enough of me to go around. My children need me to be present, attentive, and loving, and most days I feel like I am woefully unequipped for the task of motherhood. Through the book Gospel Centered Mom, I have realized that I can lay down the burden of being enough. Jesus is enough. His grace is enough for me, and His grace is enough for my children. This truth brings about so much freedom, when I chose to embrace it, and live it out. I am not, and was never supposed to be enough for my children. As John 3:30 states, “He must increase, but I must decrease.”
In Gospel Centered Mom, Brooke reminds her readers that by taking God at his word, every day can be an opportunity to grow deeper in love with Him. I need this truth so much. Every day is not about getting homeschool done, or laundry finished, or making it to bed time. It is about growing deeper in love with my Savior. When I am focused on my circumstances, I wonder if God is with me on my messy, hard days. I need to remember that God can use my hard, messy days to glorify Him, if I fix my eyes on Him. In the last chapter, Brooke reminds us that we need to, “Be diligent. Pray hard. Study God’s word, and let it bring you life.” I wonder how many times, do I look for an easier way to walk this motherhood journey. There is no easy way to be a Gospel Centered Mom. Brooke states, “The best way we can be the mom our kids really need is to focus our attention on following hard after Jesus.”
I would recommend Gospel Centered Mom to any mom who needs to be reminded of her purpose. According to the Westminster Catechism, “Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.” As a mom, I want that to be my goal also, and in Gospel Centered Mom, Brooke shares scripture and encouragement that reminds moms to keep their focus on God, even on the hardest days of motherhood. I am so thankful that I do have to be enough for my children, and that God’s grace is enough for my children and me. It is so amazing to realize that He can use my flaws and failures to bring Him glory as I live my life surrendered to Him.
For the past eight years, I have struggled with feelings of not being enough for my children. The feelings intensified six years ago after becoming a mother of two and then a year later a mother of three children. It always seems that there is not enough of me to go around. My children need me to be present, attentive, and loving, and most days I feel like I am woefully unequipped for the task of motherhood. Through the book Gospel Centered Mom, I have realized that I can lay down the burden of being enough. Jesus is enough. His grace is enough for me, and His grace is enough for my children. This truth brings about so much freedom, when I chose to embrace it, and live it out. I am not, and was never supposed to be enough for my children. As John 3:30 states, “He must increase, but I must decrease.”
In Gospel Centered Mom, Brooke reminds her readers that by taking God at his word, every day can be an opportunity to grow deeper in love with Him. I need this truth so much. Every day is not about getting homeschool done, or laundry finished, or making it to bed time. It is about growing deeper in love with my Savior. When I am focused on my circumstances, I wonder if God is with me on my messy, hard days. I need to remember that God can use my hard, messy days to glorify Him, if I fix my eyes on Him. In the last chapter, Brooke reminds us that we need to, “Be diligent. Pray hard. Study God’s word, and let it bring you life.” I wonder how many times, do I look for an easier way to walk this motherhood journey. There is no easy way to be a Gospel Centered Mom. Brooke states, “The best way we can be the mom our kids really need is to focus our attention on following hard after Jesus.”
I would recommend Gospel Centered Mom to any mom who needs to be reminded of her purpose. According to the Westminster Catechism, “Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.” As a mom, I want that to be my goal also, and in Gospel Centered Mom, Brooke shares scripture and encouragement that reminds moms to keep their focus on God, even on the hardest days of motherhood. I am so thankful that I do have to be enough for my children, and that God’s grace is enough for my children and me. It is so amazing to realize that He can use my flaws and failures to bring Him glory as I live my life surrendered to Him.
January 31, 2018
In Gospel Centered Mom, author Brooke McGlothlin tackles the idea that while we may not feel like enough as a mom, God is. Further, if we can separate ourselves from the ME gospel (where the world centers around me) we can come to terms with motherhood being worth the sacrifice.
Maybe its because my husband and I had such a difficult time having children, but I struggled getting through this book. I just want to own that this book is not what I thought it was before I continue with my review. I thought it was about lining up your parenting with the Gospel- to see my home as the most important mission field. There are so many positive aspects within the pages of Gospel Centered Mom that make it somewhat encouraging. Really, I wish i could cut and paste chapters...remove a few ideas...and add a heavy dose of joy.
While I am certain I understand the difficulty of raising boys (I have two) I found McGlothlin's angst unrelatable. She refers to her boys as the "hard to handle" kind many times in the book. Aren't all kids on some level and in different seasons "hard to handle?" I think a little humor would have helped tremendously. All of us with kids in retrospect can look back and laugh at some of the craziness that we experience raising our babies! Also, I had hard time finding a rhythm or order in the book. The chapters did not flow from one to the next, they felt loosely tied together.
The best part of the book can be found in the the ninth chapter, Worth Fighting For. It is here you will find helpful advice broken down in a useful way. McGlothlin encourages mom's to fight for and not against their kids. She gives ten ways to fight for your kids: Tell God He can have you, Learn when to keep your mouth shut, Get in the habit of prayer, Embrace the power of the mommy time-out, Prepare ahead of time, Be Stronger, Love Harder, Be a student of your child, Think outside the box, and Refuse to give up. I could be off base, but those could have easily been ten chapters.
I write one critical review for every hundred positive reviews. I absolutely hate that I did not love this book. I will say, that if you need to read something by a mom who has had a difficult time, you find a friend here. This book just was not for me. I was given a copy of this book by BloggingForBooks. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts are my own and I have not been compensated.
Maybe its because my husband and I had such a difficult time having children, but I struggled getting through this book. I just want to own that this book is not what I thought it was before I continue with my review. I thought it was about lining up your parenting with the Gospel- to see my home as the most important mission field. There are so many positive aspects within the pages of Gospel Centered Mom that make it somewhat encouraging. Really, I wish i could cut and paste chapters...remove a few ideas...and add a heavy dose of joy.
While I am certain I understand the difficulty of raising boys (I have two) I found McGlothlin's angst unrelatable. She refers to her boys as the "hard to handle" kind many times in the book. Aren't all kids on some level and in different seasons "hard to handle?" I think a little humor would have helped tremendously. All of us with kids in retrospect can look back and laugh at some of the craziness that we experience raising our babies! Also, I had hard time finding a rhythm or order in the book. The chapters did not flow from one to the next, they felt loosely tied together.
The best part of the book can be found in the the ninth chapter, Worth Fighting For. It is here you will find helpful advice broken down in a useful way. McGlothlin encourages mom's to fight for and not against their kids. She gives ten ways to fight for your kids: Tell God He can have you, Learn when to keep your mouth shut, Get in the habit of prayer, Embrace the power of the mommy time-out, Prepare ahead of time, Be Stronger, Love Harder, Be a student of your child, Think outside the box, and Refuse to give up. I could be off base, but those could have easily been ten chapters.
I write one critical review for every hundred positive reviews. I absolutely hate that I did not love this book. I will say, that if you need to read something by a mom who has had a difficult time, you find a friend here. This book just was not for me. I was given a copy of this book by BloggingForBooks. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts are my own and I have not been compensated.
August 17, 2017
What I love about this book is the way that God is using Brooke. It’s not flowery and fluffy, feel-good writing. It’s meaty, and challenging and tough to swallow. It’s what we NEED, not just entertainment and making us feel better about who we are.
Not only are we getting biblical truths and concepts, but what I admire is that Brooke gives me practical ways to apply those soul-piercing revelations to MY life. I read the stories of this fellow boy-mom, and they could easily be something that happened to me. The camaraderie of being a boy-mom draws me to her writing, and speaks to me in a relatable way. I know I can use the methods she lines out, because she is doing it herself.
With these hard truths, Brooke also offers how when I have the Gospel at the center of my life, I will be filled with His peace and joy.
If you want to be challenged, broken, and yet encouraged with useable methods, grab this book now. But be warned, you will be changed!
Not only are we getting biblical truths and concepts, but what I admire is that Brooke gives me practical ways to apply those soul-piercing revelations to MY life. I read the stories of this fellow boy-mom, and they could easily be something that happened to me. The camaraderie of being a boy-mom draws me to her writing, and speaks to me in a relatable way. I know I can use the methods she lines out, because she is doing it herself.
With these hard truths, Brooke also offers how when I have the Gospel at the center of my life, I will be filled with His peace and joy.
If you want to be challenged, broken, and yet encouraged with useable methods, grab this book now. But be warned, you will be changed!
February 6, 2020
This is a good book for moms who are in the weeds of parenting. Those years where there are too many permission slips and reading logs and other parental torture devices.
The beginning was a little rough for me to get through but I am glad I did. This book is relate-able and encouraging and for all the moms who know they love their kids and don't have to pretend to be so precious about it that the forget to complain about the hard moments!
The publisher provided an ARC through Netgalley. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts
The beginning was a little rough for me to get through but I am glad I did. This book is relate-able and encouraging and for all the moms who know they love their kids and don't have to pretend to be so precious about it that the forget to complain about the hard moments!
The publisher provided an ARC through Netgalley. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts
October 25, 2017
Saw this as an online book club and gave it a shot even though I was concerned it would be too fundamentalist. There is a lot of that but some good info too.
August 27, 2025
Must read for the Christ following Mom
Not a feel-good self help book. A challenge to give our lives for Christ and our families. Love, love, love this book.
Not a feel-good self help book. A challenge to give our lives for Christ and our families. Love, love, love this book.
Read
January 24, 2022Quotes:
Page 19 As his mom, I wanted to fill his heart with confidence. Whether it was his own or mine didn’t matter. I knew he could do it…he just needed to be reminded.
Page 21 Peace – that thing all mothers want more than life itself – comes only from trusting God to be all we need. Peace isn’t something we can manufacture but something He manifests.
Page 31 Little did I know that the births of our children would usher me into a time of utter failure and bring a low I never could have envisioned.
Page 33 My desire was to reflect Christ well to others, but my understanding of that was built on a specific definition of success, nothing less. I had no idea that Icould glorify God in the midst of my failures, perhaps even more than with my successes, and I had no idea that even though I wanted to honor God, I wasn't able to do it because I was making my life all about me.
Page 37 It’s so much more important for me to follow the pattern of Jesus than to stand up for my rights, but the culture we live in tells me something completely different.
Page 38 Philippians 2:3
Page 41 But when your concern for your own well-being demands so much time that you have nothing left over for anyone else, you’ve moved into the ME gospel.
Page 47 Here’s the secret: we feel like we’re not enough because we aren’t. We were never supposed to be. Living in the ME gospel keeps our eyes on our own lack. But God made us for so much more.
Page 49 I wish I could say – like my neighbor at the beginning of the book – that I run a tight ship. Actually, I try hard to run a tight ship. It's just the sailors aboard the ship aren't particularly compliant, and since I can't exactly make anyone walk the plank, I'm left with the hope that heart change will lead to behavior change – eventually. (never mind, I think I'll just walk the plank myself.)
Page 58 If I embraced the ME gospel, I would believe that I deserve to have perfect little soldier children who are happy and healthy all the time and that I should be able to make them that way. The ME gospel days I deserve easy.
Page 83 One of the beautiful things in our marriage is that my husband considers a part of his ministry to make my Ministry possible. He deliberately makes time to help around the house and engage with the kids so I'll have time to research and write.
Page 89 Certainly, God does give wealth to some, but He is in no way obligated to make all who follow His name get rich. God is not focused on possessions unless they help further his kingdom. In His economy, giving is better than getting.
Page 91 Watching God provide is one of the most exciting parts of the Christian faith. But to experience it, we have to be willing to wait.
Page 98 George Muller Quote: According to my judgment, the most important point to be attended to is this: Above All Things, see to it that your souls are happy in the Lord. Other things may press upon you; the Lord's work you may have urgent claims upon your attention; but I deliberately repeat, it is of supreme and Paramount importance that you should seek, above all other things, to have your souls truly happy and God himself. Day by day seek to make this the most important business of your life. This has been my firm and settled conviction for the last 5 and 30 years…The Secret of all true effectual service is, joy and God, and having experimental acquaintance and fellowship with God himself.
Page 107 When you willfully, directly, and immediately submit your thoughts to Christ, telling Him that He has the right to change them, control them, and subdue them, you are resisting the devil.
Page 108 It’s not that I thought chanting this verse could somehow ward off bad things; it was more that I just needed to tell myself the truth over and over again until my heart believed it.
Page 116 It is our duty, our responsibility, and our privilege to pray. Not only should we do it, but we get to do it. Prayer is the vehicle of our great need for God.
Page 149 I was putting my faith in food* to save us. Not to save us from sin, but to protect us, keep us safe–something that is only God’s job. *replace food with LITERALLY anything else.
Page 158 I’ve been looking for a way to stop fighting against my son, when the truth is that I’m wrestling something else entirely. My battle isn’t with him; it’s against a deeper, darker evil that would try to consume him and fill his head with lies.
Page 159 The world needs more stubborn men and women who have learned to trust God through hard-won battles with submission to his will. That’s the kind of men and women I’m asking God to help us raise.
Page 196 The subtitle of this book is “The freeing truth about what your kids really need”. The truth is, freedom comes at a cost. Any Soldier could tell you that freedom isn't free. Any time a man or woman fights for Freedom, it comes with great personal sacrifice, and most of them know there's a chance they won't come back. Someone must be willing to die to be expendable for the greater cause.
Page 19 As his mom, I wanted to fill his heart with confidence. Whether it was his own or mine didn’t matter. I knew he could do it…he just needed to be reminded.
Page 21 Peace – that thing all mothers want more than life itself – comes only from trusting God to be all we need. Peace isn’t something we can manufacture but something He manifests.
Page 31 Little did I know that the births of our children would usher me into a time of utter failure and bring a low I never could have envisioned.
Page 33 My desire was to reflect Christ well to others, but my understanding of that was built on a specific definition of success, nothing less. I had no idea that Icould glorify God in the midst of my failures, perhaps even more than with my successes, and I had no idea that even though I wanted to honor God, I wasn't able to do it because I was making my life all about me.
Page 37 It’s so much more important for me to follow the pattern of Jesus than to stand up for my rights, but the culture we live in tells me something completely different.
Page 38 Philippians 2:3
Page 41 But when your concern for your own well-being demands so much time that you have nothing left over for anyone else, you’ve moved into the ME gospel.
Page 47 Here’s the secret: we feel like we’re not enough because we aren’t. We were never supposed to be. Living in the ME gospel keeps our eyes on our own lack. But God made us for so much more.
Page 49 I wish I could say – like my neighbor at the beginning of the book – that I run a tight ship. Actually, I try hard to run a tight ship. It's just the sailors aboard the ship aren't particularly compliant, and since I can't exactly make anyone walk the plank, I'm left with the hope that heart change will lead to behavior change – eventually. (never mind, I think I'll just walk the plank myself.)
Page 58 If I embraced the ME gospel, I would believe that I deserve to have perfect little soldier children who are happy and healthy all the time and that I should be able to make them that way. The ME gospel days I deserve easy.
Page 83 One of the beautiful things in our marriage is that my husband considers a part of his ministry to make my Ministry possible. He deliberately makes time to help around the house and engage with the kids so I'll have time to research and write.
Page 89 Certainly, God does give wealth to some, but He is in no way obligated to make all who follow His name get rich. God is not focused on possessions unless they help further his kingdom. In His economy, giving is better than getting.
Page 91 Watching God provide is one of the most exciting parts of the Christian faith. But to experience it, we have to be willing to wait.
Page 98 George Muller Quote: According to my judgment, the most important point to be attended to is this: Above All Things, see to it that your souls are happy in the Lord. Other things may press upon you; the Lord's work you may have urgent claims upon your attention; but I deliberately repeat, it is of supreme and Paramount importance that you should seek, above all other things, to have your souls truly happy and God himself. Day by day seek to make this the most important business of your life. This has been my firm and settled conviction for the last 5 and 30 years…The Secret of all true effectual service is, joy and God, and having experimental acquaintance and fellowship with God himself.
Page 107 When you willfully, directly, and immediately submit your thoughts to Christ, telling Him that He has the right to change them, control them, and subdue them, you are resisting the devil.
Page 108 It’s not that I thought chanting this verse could somehow ward off bad things; it was more that I just needed to tell myself the truth over and over again until my heart believed it.
Page 116 It is our duty, our responsibility, and our privilege to pray. Not only should we do it, but we get to do it. Prayer is the vehicle of our great need for God.
Page 149 I was putting my faith in food* to save us. Not to save us from sin, but to protect us, keep us safe–something that is only God’s job. *replace food with LITERALLY anything else.
Page 158 I’ve been looking for a way to stop fighting against my son, when the truth is that I’m wrestling something else entirely. My battle isn’t with him; it’s against a deeper, darker evil that would try to consume him and fill his head with lies.
Page 159 The world needs more stubborn men and women who have learned to trust God through hard-won battles with submission to his will. That’s the kind of men and women I’m asking God to help us raise.
Page 196 The subtitle of this book is “The freeing truth about what your kids really need”. The truth is, freedom comes at a cost. Any Soldier could tell you that freedom isn't free. Any time a man or woman fights for Freedom, it comes with great personal sacrifice, and most of them know there's a chance they won't come back. Someone must be willing to die to be expendable for the greater cause.
January 7, 2018
If you are a weary mom, wondering if you are enough then this is the book for you. Brooke McGlothlin offers an honest and real glimpse into her life and inner thoughts surrounding being a mom to two spirited boys. When I selected this book I thought it would be solely focused on parenting; however the author also discusses other themes important to becoming a healthy and gospel centered person outside of the typical mom role. Important nuggets of truth are shared to point the reader to viewing scripture with a gospel centered theology, rather than what the author refers to as a ME centered viewpoint.
Brooke McGlothlin outlines multiple key, regularly used scriptures and shows us how we often look at them in a way that benefits us and is focused on the individual person, rather than viewing them in a way that points to God and the gospel. I found these extremely enlightening and a gentle reminder of how we can often twist scripture into what we want to hear, rather than what God is really trying to show us through His word.
I selected this book expecting to be hit with more of an outline or "how to" with expanded thoughts on each bit of wisdom; however it was a bit less cohesive than I expected jumping between mom moments and non-mom moments, examples that seem to fit us all and ones that are rare and a bit hard to relate to. I weeded my way through though and when I reached chapter 9 I found exactly what I was looking for. A concise list of important truths and wisdom on how to relate and parent our children. Brooke McGlothlincalls it "10 Ways to Start Fighting for Your Children Instead of Against Them". These 10 suggestions are worth jotting down as a daily reminder of how to work with our kids so they can be the person God created them to be rather than the person we want them to be.
Overall I thought the book was okay. It let me down a bit in the content and layout, but I definitely took away important reminders and suggestions on how to parent in a way that isn't about ME, but about HIM. I think the book is better suited to a book club or small study group rather than reading it as an individual. It even includes discussion questions in the back that would be beneficial in guiding conversation, which is always helpful!
I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review. All opinions are my own.
Brooke McGlothlin outlines multiple key, regularly used scriptures and shows us how we often look at them in a way that benefits us and is focused on the individual person, rather than viewing them in a way that points to God and the gospel. I found these extremely enlightening and a gentle reminder of how we can often twist scripture into what we want to hear, rather than what God is really trying to show us through His word.
I selected this book expecting to be hit with more of an outline or "how to" with expanded thoughts on each bit of wisdom; however it was a bit less cohesive than I expected jumping between mom moments and non-mom moments, examples that seem to fit us all and ones that are rare and a bit hard to relate to. I weeded my way through though and when I reached chapter 9 I found exactly what I was looking for. A concise list of important truths and wisdom on how to relate and parent our children. Brooke McGlothlincalls it "10 Ways to Start Fighting for Your Children Instead of Against Them". These 10 suggestions are worth jotting down as a daily reminder of how to work with our kids so they can be the person God created them to be rather than the person we want them to be.
Overall I thought the book was okay. It let me down a bit in the content and layout, but I definitely took away important reminders and suggestions on how to parent in a way that isn't about ME, but about HIM. I think the book is better suited to a book club or small study group rather than reading it as an individual. It even includes discussion questions in the back that would be beneficial in guiding conversation, which is always helpful!
I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review. All opinions are my own.
August 24, 2018
For the past eight years, I have struggled with feelings of not being enough for my children. The feelings intensified six years ago after becoming a mother of two and then a year later a mother of three children. It always seems that there is not enough of me to go around. My children need me to be present, attentive, and loving, and most days I feel like I am woefully unequipped for the task of motherhood. Through the book Gospel Centered Mom, I have realized that I can lay down the burden of being enough. Jesus is enough. His grace is enough for me, and His grace is enough for my children. This truth brings about so much freedom, when I chose to embrace it, and live it out. I am not, and was never supposed to be enough for my children. As John 3:30 states, “He must increase, but I must decrease.”
In Gospel Centered Mom, Brooke reminds her readers that by taking God at his word, every day can be an opportunity to grow deeper in love with Him. I need this truth so much. Every day is not about getting homeschool done, or laundry finished, or making it to bed time. It is about growing deeper in love with my Savior. When I am focused on my circumstances, I wonder if God is with me on my messy, hard days. I need to remember that God can use my hard, messy days to glorify Him, if I fix my eyes on Him. In the last chapter, Brooke reminds us that we need to, “Be diligent. Pray hard. Study God’s word, and let it bring you life.” I wonder how many times, do I look for an easier way to walk this motherhood journey. There is no easy way to be a Gospel Centered Mom. Brooke states, “The best way we can be the mom our kids really need is to focus our attention on following hard after Jesus.”
I would recommend Gospel Centered Mom to any mom who needs to be reminded of her purpose. According to the Westminster Catechism, “Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.” As a mom, I want that to be my goal also, and in Gospel Centered Mom, Brooke shares scripture and encouragement that reminds moms to keep their focus on God, even on the hardest days of motherhood. I am so thankful that I do have to be enough for my children, and that God’s grace is enough for my children and me. It is so amazing to realize that He can use my flaws and failures to bring Him glory as I live my life surrendered to Him.
In Gospel Centered Mom, Brooke reminds her readers that by taking God at his word, every day can be an opportunity to grow deeper in love with Him. I need this truth so much. Every day is not about getting homeschool done, or laundry finished, or making it to bed time. It is about growing deeper in love with my Savior. When I am focused on my circumstances, I wonder if God is with me on my messy, hard days. I need to remember that God can use my hard, messy days to glorify Him, if I fix my eyes on Him. In the last chapter, Brooke reminds us that we need to, “Be diligent. Pray hard. Study God’s word, and let it bring you life.” I wonder how many times, do I look for an easier way to walk this motherhood journey. There is no easy way to be a Gospel Centered Mom. Brooke states, “The best way we can be the mom our kids really need is to focus our attention on following hard after Jesus.”
I would recommend Gospel Centered Mom to any mom who needs to be reminded of her purpose. According to the Westminster Catechism, “Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.” As a mom, I want that to be my goal also, and in Gospel Centered Mom, Brooke shares scripture and encouragement that reminds moms to keep their focus on God, even on the hardest days of motherhood. I am so thankful that I do have to be enough for my children, and that God’s grace is enough for my children and me. It is so amazing to realize that He can use my flaws and failures to bring Him glory as I live my life surrendered to Him.
December 19, 2017
Brooke McGlothlin must be tired. And I mean that in the very best of ways. Not because she is the mother of two "hard-to-handle" boys (although I am sure that could be a factor). Rather, because each page of Gospel Centered Mom is a fight against the current of mainstream womanhood. When seemingly every message tells us we are enough, McGlothlin boldly declares we absolutely are not. And that is a good thing.
"When we believe we are enough -- even when we feel Jesus's enough makes us enough -- we're placing our eyes on ourselves, as if our abilities are top priority. On the other hand, when we acknowledge our constant need for and dependence on Him, our eyes are placed on Him and His priorities take over" (p. 14).
No holds are barred. From the first page, McGlothlin draws you close with candid details about her personal struggles. She invites you to take a seat at her table. And like most hospitable of hosts, she makes you feel welcome, no matter what mom baggage you carry. You'll feel immersed in deep conversation with a trusted mentor/friend in spite of the pages you keep turning.
McGlothlin's writing is equal parts banter and tutelage. Her transparency is conversational. She delves into the reader's head crafting feelings of inadequacy into eloquent relatable words. She positions herself as a confidant.
But it isn't enough to identify with mothers who feel like they are not enough. McGlothlin details why moms should stop trying to measure up, and supplies a cache of wisdom to shift perspective from the self-centered gospel of modern motherhood to THE Gospel. Scripture supports her suppositions. She employs the Word of God, cutting through misconceptions while gently pointing the reader toward truth. This is not a book of feel-good mommy snuggles. Instead, it is hard truth cushioned by a genuine love for the struggling mother. The author doesn't just tell us what we should do. She tells us how to do it, breaking it down into practical and digestible steps and even providing study questions in the back of the book.
Gospel Centered Mom should be Christian motherhood canon. Moreover, chapter one should be required reading for all Christian women.
I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.
"When we believe we are enough -- even when we feel Jesus's enough makes us enough -- we're placing our eyes on ourselves, as if our abilities are top priority. On the other hand, when we acknowledge our constant need for and dependence on Him, our eyes are placed on Him and His priorities take over" (p. 14).
No holds are barred. From the first page, McGlothlin draws you close with candid details about her personal struggles. She invites you to take a seat at her table. And like most hospitable of hosts, she makes you feel welcome, no matter what mom baggage you carry. You'll feel immersed in deep conversation with a trusted mentor/friend in spite of the pages you keep turning.
McGlothlin's writing is equal parts banter and tutelage. Her transparency is conversational. She delves into the reader's head crafting feelings of inadequacy into eloquent relatable words. She positions herself as a confidant.
But it isn't enough to identify with mothers who feel like they are not enough. McGlothlin details why moms should stop trying to measure up, and supplies a cache of wisdom to shift perspective from the self-centered gospel of modern motherhood to THE Gospel. Scripture supports her suppositions. She employs the Word of God, cutting through misconceptions while gently pointing the reader toward truth. This is not a book of feel-good mommy snuggles. Instead, it is hard truth cushioned by a genuine love for the struggling mother. The author doesn't just tell us what we should do. She tells us how to do it, breaking it down into practical and digestible steps and even providing study questions in the back of the book.
Gospel Centered Mom should be Christian motherhood canon. Moreover, chapter one should be required reading for all Christian women.
I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.
November 7, 2017
When I received this book I was really feeling the inadequacy of being a Mom. More often than not, I feel like I can't do this, I am not enough, others have it all together me? Help! I'm a failure!
The timing for this book was perfect. In the very first chapter, Brooke gives and example of feeling like no matter what she did... she was not enough, comparing herself to other moms who seemed to have it all together, trying to work, keep house, maintain a peaceful atmosphere, all the while struggling with the feeling of incompetence. Did she just hit the nail on the head? For me, yes! Oh the relief when in the very first chapter, she says ... you will never be enough. And it's ok! For me that was such a breath of fresh air! I don't have too be enough, I can quit trying so hard, because Jesus is the Only One who will always be enough. It was freeing, encouraging and I couldn't wait to read more.
Most of the time I do not read, self help books very quickly. Honestly, you have to process, digest, etc... as you read. But I did not want to put this book down. I was able to relate to so much of what she was saying. I felt like I was in the pit, but she was throwing me a life line, and I wanted to climb out as fast as I could.
Brooke doesn't offer quick fixes, twelve step plans... rather she offers, the GOSPEL - Jesus. She offers encouragement and grace. She offers reminders that we weren't meant to have it all, be everything, or keep it all together. She gives hope for the weary, not in a do-it-better, work-at-it-harder plan, instead in knowing that God is our lifeline, our hope, and that without Him we truly can do nothing. Sounds depressing doesn't it, but it's actually quite freeing to just live in the grace of Jesus!
She gives a contrast between society's focus on self and the subtle "ME"-gospel verses the TRUE-Gospel in which our hope lies.
I was blessed with a copy of this book from Waterbrook Multanomah and Blogging for books. I was not asked or required to review positively. All opinions are my own.
The timing for this book was perfect. In the very first chapter, Brooke gives and example of feeling like no matter what she did... she was not enough, comparing herself to other moms who seemed to have it all together, trying to work, keep house, maintain a peaceful atmosphere, all the while struggling with the feeling of incompetence. Did she just hit the nail on the head? For me, yes! Oh the relief when in the very first chapter, she says ... you will never be enough. And it's ok! For me that was such a breath of fresh air! I don't have too be enough, I can quit trying so hard, because Jesus is the Only One who will always be enough. It was freeing, encouraging and I couldn't wait to read more.
Most of the time I do not read, self help books very quickly. Honestly, you have to process, digest, etc... as you read. But I did not want to put this book down. I was able to relate to so much of what she was saying. I felt like I was in the pit, but she was throwing me a life line, and I wanted to climb out as fast as I could.
Brooke doesn't offer quick fixes, twelve step plans... rather she offers, the GOSPEL - Jesus. She offers encouragement and grace. She offers reminders that we weren't meant to have it all, be everything, or keep it all together. She gives hope for the weary, not in a do-it-better, work-at-it-harder plan, instead in knowing that God is our lifeline, our hope, and that without Him we truly can do nothing. Sounds depressing doesn't it, but it's actually quite freeing to just live in the grace of Jesus!
She gives a contrast between society's focus on self and the subtle "ME"-gospel verses the TRUE-Gospel in which our hope lies.
I was blessed with a copy of this book from Waterbrook Multanomah and Blogging for books. I was not asked or required to review positively. All opinions are my own.
August 1, 2017
In "Gospel-Centered Mom", Brooke challenges Christian moms to refocus from "me" to Christ, and reminds each of us what the True Gospel message is.
She quotes, “There’s really no place in the Bible that tells us to focus on our own desires, wants, dreams, or needs. The goal is always, only, and supremely to give up ourselves for the sake of Christ.”
I have read different books for moms, yet Brooke made it so personal, humorous, and challenging. Gospel-Centered Mom was exactly what I needed to help change my perspective. I loved the humor of when she was talking about her not-so-easy boys and said, "Never mind, I think I'll just walk the plank myself."
A few chapters later, Brooke is sharing on Luke 9:23 NIV – "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me." And then, she nicely summed it up by saying, "In other words, ‘Come, and die’." These simple, yet profound, words affected me to the core. They were saying, "Dear child of Mine, ‘Come, and die.’ Deny your rights, your wants, your desires, your dreams – every.single.day. You are dead. I live in you. Follow Me, and bring Me glory."
Brooke's style of writing is one that I truly enjoyed. I highly recommend that you read this book too and become challenged like I was to be a "Gospel-Centered Mom", one who dies to "me" in order that her children and others see Christ through her actions and words, which express that He is enough and worth following
I received a complimentary review copy by the publisher and author a part of the launch team and book tour. This review is my honest opinion.
The Gospel-Centered Mom: The Freeing Truth About What Your Kids Really Need
She quotes, “There’s really no place in the Bible that tells us to focus on our own desires, wants, dreams, or needs. The goal is always, only, and supremely to give up ourselves for the sake of Christ.”
I have read different books for moms, yet Brooke made it so personal, humorous, and challenging. Gospel-Centered Mom was exactly what I needed to help change my perspective. I loved the humor of when she was talking about her not-so-easy boys and said, "Never mind, I think I'll just walk the plank myself."
A few chapters later, Brooke is sharing on Luke 9:23 NIV – "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me." And then, she nicely summed it up by saying, "In other words, ‘Come, and die’." These simple, yet profound, words affected me to the core. They were saying, "Dear child of Mine, ‘Come, and die.’ Deny your rights, your wants, your desires, your dreams – every.single.day. You are dead. I live in you. Follow Me, and bring Me glory."
Brooke's style of writing is one that I truly enjoyed. I highly recommend that you read this book too and become challenged like I was to be a "Gospel-Centered Mom", one who dies to "me" in order that her children and others see Christ through her actions and words, which express that He is enough and worth following
I received a complimentary review copy by the publisher and author a part of the launch team and book tour. This review is my honest opinion.
The Gospel-Centered Mom: The Freeing Truth About What Your Kids Really Need
November 23, 2017
In her new book Gospel Centered Mom: The Freeing Truth About What Your Kids Really Need, Brooke McGlothlin shares her ideas on how we can all parent with the gospel in mind. When our children see the gospel lived out in us, it frees us to be the parents that God created us to be. No longer are we bound by the phraseology of the world. We are bound to the words of the Bible. The truth that Jesus has gone where we are trying to go. And all of it applies to our lives.
McGlothlin focuses in on the idea that we cannot be the perfect mom. Like Unsupermommy earlier this year, this book carries the reminder that we cannot be all that we think we should be. We have to embrace a life that is fully dependent upon God to give us what we need in the moment. Because we will ALWAYS be overwhelmed by the noise that surrounds us. The constant demands for the same things that wear away at our patience until we erupt like a volcano.
There is a better way. And that way involves remembering that we have to anchor ourselves in the Gospel. We have to rely on God for the wisdom on how to proceed with the child that continually rubs us the wrong way. Gospel Centered Mom doesn't focus on a high level of information. Instead, McGlothlin jumps into the thick of things with you. She shares much of the hardness of raising two boys who are tough. She shares the ways that she has been able to apply the Gospel to her parenting. Gospel Centered Mom will remind you to take yourself out of the equation.
I really wanted to love this book, but it felt like something was always missing throughout. Unfortunately, I can't quite put my finger on what I felt was missing.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. This review is my own, honest opinion.
McGlothlin focuses in on the idea that we cannot be the perfect mom. Like Unsupermommy earlier this year, this book carries the reminder that we cannot be all that we think we should be. We have to embrace a life that is fully dependent upon God to give us what we need in the moment. Because we will ALWAYS be overwhelmed by the noise that surrounds us. The constant demands for the same things that wear away at our patience until we erupt like a volcano.
There is a better way. And that way involves remembering that we have to anchor ourselves in the Gospel. We have to rely on God for the wisdom on how to proceed with the child that continually rubs us the wrong way. Gospel Centered Mom doesn't focus on a high level of information. Instead, McGlothlin jumps into the thick of things with you. She shares much of the hardness of raising two boys who are tough. She shares the ways that she has been able to apply the Gospel to her parenting. Gospel Centered Mom will remind you to take yourself out of the equation.
I really wanted to love this book, but it felt like something was always missing throughout. Unfortunately, I can't quite put my finger on what I felt was missing.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. This review is my own, honest opinion.
August 1, 2017
Brooke's new book, Gospel Centered Mom: The Freeing Truth About What Your Kids Really Need is a challenge for moms to stop living the ME Gospel and live out the True Gospel. This means that instead of focusing on ourselves we are to give ourselves up for the sake of Christ. We are called to embrace our need for Jesus alone and stop taking on all the pressure of responsibility to churn out "Christian" children. We are to fight for our children, not against them and realize that there's more than just now (http://www.themobsociety.com/blog/201...). We are not called to be perfect, we are called to pursue God and grow deeper in love with Him. And He will be the one who works in the hearts of our children. Brooke shares raw and real situations that have brought her to her knees not only for her children but also for herself. She shares many practical ideas along with the hard truths and the beautiful truths for moms to develop a Gospel Centered life. It is when we let go and let God that we will truly find the freedom to be able to understand that the Gospel calls us to serve in a greater way for a greater cause.
I was challenged to live my life in a way that fully embraces the Gospel for myself and to place my hope and faith only in Him. I know that I am not called to change my children, but to live so my children see that I am changed by the power of the Gospel. I want to be desperate only for Jesus. He is to be my prize, not health, wealth, happiness, freedom or safety, just Him! And the best way I have found to fight for my children is being in prayer.
I was challenged to live my life in a way that fully embraces the Gospel for myself and to place my hope and faith only in Him. I know that I am not called to change my children, but to live so my children see that I am changed by the power of the Gospel. I want to be desperate only for Jesus. He is to be my prize, not health, wealth, happiness, freedom or safety, just Him! And the best way I have found to fight for my children is being in prayer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2018
This is one of those parenting books I would recommend, as I am not a big fan of parenting books (as most fall into the self-help category, but this one points us to God), but Brooke has done a great job sharing parenting issues we face and providing Biblical guidance. At the end of each chapter, she shares a hard truth and beautiful truth, along with prayer, and biblical examples and scripture throughout each chapter. In addition, she provides a group Bible study guide at the end of the book, for those interested in reading the book with a group, which I would recommend. Each chapter I have made many highlights and notes. This is not one of those fluff books to make you happy and tell you you're doing a great job or even tell you what to do, but instead will give you encouragement, Bible truth, and point you to God and HIS Word, so that you can grow in your faith and hear from HIM.This parenting gig that the Lord has blessed us with isn't easy, but God will provide and equip you. May we mom's anchor our life in the gospel and share it with the next generation! “As you learn to anchor your life in the Gospel, you’ll find increased freedom, purpose, and joy in motherhood.
February 4, 2018
The Gospel Centered Mom by Brooke McGlothlin was just what this worn out Momma needed. We’ve all had those days when we just don’t feel like we are enough or we are exhausted from dealing with that one child who just keeps pushing your buttons until you’ve about pulled every last hair out. This is the book for you and will lift you up and remind you of your unique purpose. Reading this book has freed me from the guilt of thinking I wasn’t being the mom I should be and shown me how to be the mom God intended me to be.
This book is full of encouragement, wisdom, and helpful advice that is perfect for any Momma. I definitely recommend this book to women everywhere whether you are a momma, a momma to be, momma of one, momma of many, or even to grandmas, aunts, and friends of mommas. Everyone could benefit in one way or another ftrom this book and it may help you to help another struggling momma along the way.
This book is full of encouragement, wisdom, and helpful advice that is perfect for any Momma. I definitely recommend this book to women everywhere whether you are a momma, a momma to be, momma of one, momma of many, or even to grandmas, aunts, and friends of mommas. Everyone could benefit in one way or another ftrom this book and it may help you to help another struggling momma along the way.
September 17, 2017
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the free digital ARC in advance for an honest review.
What a God send this book was!!! Mrs. McGlothlin dives into the root of why mothers spend most of their lives feeling like failures. The part of the title "The Freeing Truth About What Your Kids Really Need" is a wonderful description of this book. The author is very honest and gives her own stories of failures with her 2 strong-willed boys. At the end of each chapter she gives the "hard truth" and the "beautiful truth". She uses many Bible verses and stories from the Bible (including Hosea and Gomer) to back up what she says.
I wish I could afford to buy a copy of this book for each Christian mom I know. It has been such a help to me. I have a feeling I will be reading it again and again.
What a God send this book was!!! Mrs. McGlothlin dives into the root of why mothers spend most of their lives feeling like failures. The part of the title "The Freeing Truth About What Your Kids Really Need" is a wonderful description of this book. The author is very honest and gives her own stories of failures with her 2 strong-willed boys. At the end of each chapter she gives the "hard truth" and the "beautiful truth". She uses many Bible verses and stories from the Bible (including Hosea and Gomer) to back up what she says.
I wish I could afford to buy a copy of this book for each Christian mom I know. It has been such a help to me. I have a feeling I will be reading it again and again.
March 13, 2018
This book was encouraging to read as a mom. Brooke shares honestly from her own experiences as a mother. Each chapter has truths at the end that summarize the lesson from that chapter. There are discussion questions at the end of the book that would make this a great book for a women’s group to read together in a Bible Study. I felt like it was better to read about one to two chapters a day to focus on what I was reading. There was scripture throughout the book to support what she was talking about. She talks a lot about life as a mom to boys and typical high energy characteristics of boys. Chapter 9 was my favorite about learning to fight for my kids rather than against them. It is definitely a book I would recommend to mothers with young kids.
See my full review here: https://readingthemes.wordpress.com/
See my full review here: https://readingthemes.wordpress.com/
August 2, 2017
Can I ever be enough? Gospel Centered Mom by Brooke McGlothlin attempts to answer that question. The author begins by honestly discussing the difficulties faced daily in motherhood and how they can make a mom feel inadequate. Brooke McGlothlin beautifully explains how Scripture tells us that we are not enough on our own and how we do not have to be enough because God is enough. And He is all that we need. Relying on God as our Source is the heart of the freedom He provides to moms. I highly recommend this book to moms that need encouragement to keep going and for all moms to remind us that God is everything we need, even in motherhood. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
August 12, 2017
For awhile now, I have been unsettled about some things, even slight shifts in thinking through a Christian lens, and this book puts a finger on it with refreshing and encouraging truth. In her writing, Brooke McGlothlin humbly brings us back to where our focus should be, on Jesus and what has already been written, what we already know. The way she engaged with me in the pages didn't leave me feeling shame or regret, it left me feeling hopeful and free. A friend coming alongside me, to say, yes, this is what you knew all along, and let's get back to it. Even if you root yourself in scripture daily, there is goodness for you in her candid and honest wisdom.
It was a great timing to read it heading into a fresh school year.
It was a great timing to read it heading into a fresh school year.
October 17, 2017
"The freeing truth about what your kids really need" is part of the title. Kids were addressed in the book, but not really exclusively. One chapter was specifically aimed at raising kids.
The rest of the book however, is for all aspects of our lives, and is a MUST read!
"...I find the most stressful part of raising my boys is the noise." OH, MAN can I relate to this. The noise in raising children is NEVER ending. And Ms. McGlothlin does hit my nerve with this one! Knowing that I'm not alone is a major help! The way she talks about how her children act, is a page out of my own book. I can totally relate to this woman and the chaos that exists around her.
Love her writing style, and how "real" she is!
The rest of the book however, is for all aspects of our lives, and is a MUST read!
"...I find the most stressful part of raising my boys is the noise." OH, MAN can I relate to this. The noise in raising children is NEVER ending. And Ms. McGlothlin does hit my nerve with this one! Knowing that I'm not alone is a major help! The way she talks about how her children act, is a page out of my own book. I can totally relate to this woman and the chaos that exists around her.
Love her writing style, and how "real" she is!
March 19, 2020
This book is convicting and comforting at the same time. I will be recommending it to all my mom-friends as helpful reading for navigating motherhood. Motherhood is hard enough on its own--but trying to live out the Gospel in the mundane and chaotic daily lives we lead seems almost impossible. How do I reflect Christ to my toddler in the midst of an all-out tantrum? How do I bring the Gospel into everyday conversations and the millions of questions from my preschooler? More importantly, how do I keep my own heart focused on God as I try to raise and care for all these tiny humans (and my husband)? Brooke has some practical, Gospel-centered advice for mothers everywhere. I recommend this book!
August 3, 2017
This book is really fantastic. After reading the first chapter of this book, I experienced an "A-ha!" moment as Brooke describes how it is important to recognize that we are NOT enough and never will be (i.e. we fail!) BUT this is WHY we need Jesus! I swear that Brooke is my secret twin as she describes her life with her boys. This well-written book is filled with practical tips, scientific evidence, scripture, prayers, and encouragement. I walked away from it feeling strengthened and equipped to work "FOR my children rather than against them" with a focus on God's purpose for the lives within my family.
July 21, 2019
I liked so much about this book. There is some great gospel truths for moms who have been taught many lies about our value, our role, and our mission. However, I couldn't recommend this book to the moms in my mom's group because of the fact that Brooke comes across as a very hands-off parent. She complains a lot about how hard her boys are and offers no biblical help or hope. She even says the bible doesn't tell us how to parent, which I find to be completely untrue. So if you're looking for a perspective book, this is good. If you're looking for something to encourage you in parenting, this is not it.
May 1, 2019
This book perfectly articulated a lot of things that I've been feeling lately but haven't been able to articulate well. Brooke McGlothlin encourages us to stop trying to be "enough" or to convince others that we're "enough" and instead to recognize our deep need for Jesus. She dispels the "me gospel"- the gospel that our culture teaches that centers around us instead of around Christ, and instead illustrates the true Gospel. She is not afraid to speak the truth and her words are both challenging and encouraging.
August 2, 2017
This book is counter-cultural: not just different from secular culture, but even different from mainstream Christian culture that relies on a weekly sermon and no other spiritual enrichment the rest of the time. Don't read this book if you're not ready to be challenged to see your faith through a different lens! If you are ready, you will find this book encouraging, motivating, and probably paradigm-shifting.
August 10, 2017
I was blessed to be a part of the book launch blog tour for this title and I truly enjoyed reading the book. I would highly recommend it to any mother who needs some inspiration in her mothering journey. This book will challenge you as it inspires.
Check out my full review here http://elizabethtrull.blogspot.com/20...
Check out my full review here http://elizabethtrull.blogspot.com/20...
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