Reigniting the Joy of MotherhoodSample

Seek Him First

One day, a few weeks ago, I started feeling sorry for myself. I felt the mental and physical load of motherhood, and it seemed no one noticed or appreciated all the little things I was doing, like meal planning, decluttering, or cleaning. I complained to God, "I'm tired of feeling overworked and underappreciated. It seems people just want to take, take, take."

Then I heard God say, "Ahem." God created us in His image. To me, this means many of our emotions and desires are similar to God's, for we are like Him. In this moment, He said to me, "I know exactly how you feel." I was given a reality check in motherhood.

So often, we complain to God and ask for help without acknowledging all He does for us. As a stay-at-home mom, I often want to hear a "thank you." A purposeful, thoughtful one—not one given to me from under my toddler's breath.

But God wants the same. He wants us to thank Him, get to know Him, and take time to just sit and hear what He has to say. Doesn't it feel good when someone listens to you? When someone validates your feelings and takes time to understand who you really are at the core? God wants the same.

The funny thing is when we sit and really get to know Him, our entire attitude changes. We no longer feel sorry for ourselves, and we have a renewed strength. We also gain a new perspective.

Here's the truth: we won't find fulfillment in other people's praise. Although the thank yous are wonderful, we find our true purpose in God. When we partner with Him, that's when we find overwhelming joy in motherhood.

So take time today to get to know God your Father. Be intentional about finding a few minutes alone with Him. Reach for Him instead of reaching for your phone. He loves you and wants your company.

Thank God for what He's been doing in your life lately.

We hope this plan brought you more joy in motherhood. Lauren Gaines created Inspired Motherhood to help moms feel refreshed, renewed, and equipped to raise up the next generation in courage and love, learn more here.