“This is what I have observed to be good: that it is appropriate for a person to eat, to drink and to find satisfaction in their toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given them—for this is their lot. Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot, and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God. They seldom reflect on the days of their life because God keeps them occupied with gladness of heart.” Ecclesiastes 5:18-20 NIV
For moms, enjoying motherhood is complicated! I once heard someone say that motherhood is like going on a roller coaster ride every day, except each day is unique with a different roller coaster to ride! Wrapped up in twenty-four hours are high highs and low lows. Not just one high and one low, but so many of them that we can often feel exhausted and frazzled as we lay our heads down at the end of the day.
I would even go so far as to say that most of us merely survive each day with a side of enjoyment. We notice the sweet things our kids say that melt our hearts, the adorable look on their faces as they discover something new, or when they do that chore with gladness instead of grumbles (all the highs!). But usually, most of our days are overrun with laundry piles, temper tantrums, disobedience, making meals, doing dishes, homework battles, and the list goes on (the lows)…
Here is the thing, the God of the universe has said that it is important to enjoy our lives! Somewhere in the midst of our roller coaster, we are to experience the joy of it all. We should find satisfaction in the work we do, though it may seem mundane, and feel God’s pleasure toward us as we take care of our families. When we feel God’s pleasure, our heart’s natural response is joy!
As we enter summer, take it all in, mama! Linger with your toddler for a few more seconds after he is calmed from a tantrum, bake cookies for that unruly teenager who needs a little more love, and make dinner with joy in your heart, knowing that the work of your hands is pleasing to God! There is fulfillment and joy even in the midst of the struggles and hidden places of motherhood. No matter the trench you find yourself in, God wants to gently pull you out and bring you into His light!
Join us as we spend the next three weeks on “Enjoying Motherhood” as we give our mothering to God and learn to enjoy our time with our kids! We are blessed to have you journey along with us, and we pray that you find true encouragement through God’s Holy Spirit in each devotion. We are praying for you!
With Love,
Krystle Porter & the Help Club for Moms Team
What’s Next?
Every morning this week, challenge yourself by not turning on your phone until you have spent 15 minutes in the presence of God. Use the time to pray and read your Bible.
- Enjoying Motherhood Day 1: What Does it Mean to Enjoy Motherhood? - April 21, 2024
- Holy Week Family Devotional - March 20, 2024
- Mom to Mom with Krystle - February 24, 2024