Sweet momma,
I saw you at church. You were chatting with all the other moms, discussing summer plans, and smiling at the stories of field day, dance recital, and graduation plans.
You had a smile on your face but your eyes told a different story:
worries about how the bills would get paid this month,
fears about how your parents’ failing health would affect your family,
insecurities about how you measure up as a mom,
concerns and doubts and more about those things we rarely share aloud.
I want you to know I saw you. That extra squeeze when we stood in the parking lot, that was because I saw you, I really did. This morning, I’ve already prayed for you. I read the story of Hagar. Remember her? She was Sarah’s way of accomplishing God’s plan. When that didn’t turn out the way she thought it would, Sarah sent Hagar away. Hagar was alone, pregnant, afraid, and very weary. And that is exactly where God met her.
And the angel of the Lord said to her, “Behold, you are pregnant and shall bear a son. You shall call his name Ishmael, because the Lord has listened to your affliction.”
So she called the name of the Lord who spoke to her, You are a God of seeing” for she said, “Truly, here I have seen Him who looks after me.”
Genesis 16:11, 13
El Roi, the God who sees. That is what Hagar called Him. Later in Scripture, He is called Emmanuel, God with us. Oh sweet weary mom, know this:
You are seen and loved and esteemed by the God of all creation. He is with you. He truly SEES you.
So, today, you go, girl! I see you. God sees you. Let those eyes smile too!! We’ll make it.
With love,
Teri Lynne
{For more encouragement for the weary days, check out all the amazing links at Hope for the Weary Mom’s “Dear Weary Mom” linkup!}
Ah, this one is a keeper my friend. I think I’ll print out a graphic that says, “He sees you right now.” and hang it in every room of our home.
Um, yes, and when you make that graphic, can you send it to me too!! I think we’ve got some walls {and hearts!} that have space for that reminder as well. 🙂
I love this. And what encouragement it brings to my heart right now. I am so looking forward to meeting you at Kris’ retreat. And maybe sooner. Will you be at Declare or Allume?
Just a beautiful letter, friend.
Thank you, Michele-Lyn. I am looking forward to meeting you as well. I will not be at either Declare or Allume. My girl is cheerleading this year … so it seems the season of attending multiple conferences per year has passed for a while. 🙂
This is beautiful! I need that reminder that I am seen by a God who approves my every move!
Yes! I am sharing this with a friend, who needs it. I love this: thank you for writing another much needed post. Love, Debby
I LOVE that you share Hagar when so many want to skip to the pretty lovely stories of the women in the bible.
He does meet us – right here !!
Well, Stef, you know me! I’m always game for getting into the nitty gritty of Scripture and what it ALL means for us.