Hagar used another name to refer to the Lord, who had spoken to her. She said, “You are the God who sees me.” She also said, “Have I truly seen the One who sees me?” Genesis 16:13 

Hagar was in a pickle, to say the least. First, her mistress, Sarai, had forced Hagar to sleep with her mistress’s husband, Abram. Then when Hagar became pregnant, she began treating Sarai with contempt. Sarai then treated Hagar so harshly that she ran away to the desert. The angel of the Lord found Hagar and told her to return home. If she would submit to Sarai, God would take care of her and her son. 

The second time Hagar left Abraham’s household was when she was sent away by Sarah and Abraham (Genesis 21:8-21). But the Lord spoke to her again and promised that she and her son, Ishmael, would be more than okay (Genesis 21:17-18). Ishmael was too young to understand what his mom went through to ensure his future. But he lived in the fruit of her faith and the joy of God’s love. 

Kids today know a lot, but not everything—like how long it takes to wrap presents the night before Christmas, or about leaving work early so the kids don’t have to ride the bus, or how packing lunches every day for twelve years can get old. Motherhood is full of mundane tasks that can make you feel unseen and unknown. Motherhood changes you, shapes you, and interrupts your sense of self. But your children benefit from your obedience and faith. 

The first time Hagar ended up in the desert, God spoke to her and gave her a hopeful promise for her and for Ishmael’s future. In turn, Hagar called God “the One who sees me.” For those days you feel alone, unappreciated, and unseen, remember the one who sees you every minute of the day—our God! 

No matter what, God always has his eye on you and wants the very best for you and your kids. 

 

This month, we are sharing devotions – like this one – from the Daily Devotional Bible for Moms! Pick up your copy today at dayspring.com.