Have you ever experienced a disappointing Mother’s Day? Felt like you weren’t celebrated or cherished the way you had hoped? Or perhaps you felt loved on Mother’s Day, but undervalued periodically throughout the year? I’ll be honest. I’ve wrestled with those feelings—unloved, unnoticed, unappreciated.
I’ll never forget one year I really wanted chocolates from my favorite candy store. I left some not-so-subtle hints for my husband and made it (abundantly) clear that the ONLY thing I wanted was a box of my favorite chocolates. The day came and as I opened the gift, I found myself immensely disappointed. I couldn’t even tell you what the present was because feelings of hurt and frustration overwhelmed me. I really wanted those chocolates.
I felt so upset it actually ruined the rest of the day for me. I remained angry with my husband and spent the time feeling sorry for myself. That night when I went to bed, I discovered the box of coveted chocolates under my pillow. I should have felt elated, but by then I was too mad to even enjoy my gift.
James had anticipated how happy I’d be when I discovered the additional gift, gleefully anticipating the surprise, but I struggled to shake off my disappointment from before. Full disclosure—I even went so far as to ask that if he ever tried to surprise me like that again (which I strongly discouraged), he should give me the gift I wanted first and let the other one be the surprise instead. I know, I know. I am a terrible person. But it’s the truth.
As petty as this may seem, it was a big deal for me. At the time, I regularly felt disappointed by others. With gifts being one of my primary love languages, I found that thoughtful gifts filled my love tank while the rest left me feeling let down.
Over the years, I’ve realized when I look to Jesus for my gifts, I am never disappointed. In fact, His gifts actually transform my life in amazing ways. So, this year for Mother’s Day, I want to share 10 of those gifts God has for you. I’ve compiled them into a short devotional as my gift to you.
“If you, imperfect as you are, know how to lovingly take care of your children and give them what’s best, how much more ready is your heavenly Father to give wonderful gifts to those who ask him?” – Matthew 7:11 TPT
Happiest Mother’s Day! Thank you for sharing this journey of motherhood with me. Leave a comment or send an email to let me know how you are planning to celebrate this year. I’d love to hear from you, and am always here to support you however I can!
Blessings,
Thank you! I can’t wait to read this devotional.
You’re welcome Theresa! Happy Mother’s Day!