Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Dear heavenly Father,
The Thanksgiving and holiday season can be painful for me, and sometimes the pain is all-consuming. Forgive me when I see my friends holding up their children’s drawings of turkeys or participating in a Thanksgiving play at school — and I believe the lie that because I don’t have what they have, that you don’t love me. For I know this is a lie from the enemy, Father, and I thank you that you desire to give good gifts for me (Matthew 7:11), and the enemy does not — keep my eyes fixed on you and your truth.
It’s easy for me to feel entitled for you to bless me with whatever I want, especially with a child. Jesus, please humble me in your presence and in your Word to acknowledge you as Lord over all things (Philippians 2:11) — including my infertility. I want to confidently draw near to your throne of grace; give me mercy and grace in my time of need (Hebrews 4:16).
Father, restrain the enemy from attacking my heart of gratitude. In a season of being generous and grateful, strengthen me to keep this attitude and not fall into the rut of envy, discontentment, anger, and greed. I hate these darkened feelings that pollute my heart, Lord. Remind me that my thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not my ways (Isaiah 55:8).
In a season that is clearly focused on family, help me not to focus on what I am lacking. Give me eyes and ears that will be open to appreciating the family and friends that I have right now, in this moment — and that I can rejoice being your daughter and adopted into your family (Galatians 4:5-7). Remind me that my current suffering cannot compare to the future glory that awaits me (Romans 8:18).
Father, though it’s easy to blame you for my empty womb and empty arms, strengthen me to be confident and joyful in all the blessings you have lavishly and gracefully given to me. Instill a spirit of generosity in me, that I may desire to bless others with your Word and your truths. I desire to be content whatever the circumstances (Philippians 4:11).
Lord, I bring my cares and my concerns before you, and confess that you are Lord above all things — and that you are a good, gracious, merciful, loving, forgiving Father. My infertility is no surprise to you, and it is nothing you cannot handle. I thank you that you give me abundant grace to endure this journey, and though I may not understand why, my highest song of praise is that I can glorify you and you alone through this valley.
I will praise you and give thanks in all things! In Christ’s name I pray these things, amen.
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Cover photo used with permission by Cecile Vedemil via Unsplash
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