Mary’s sixteen-year-old daughter, Amy, had come home from cheerleading practice in tears that afternoon. She had been struggling to fit in with the other girls on the squad and had discovered that day that she’d been intentionally excluded from a sleepover at the captain’s house.

After comforting Amy for a while, Mary sent her to take a shower. She knelt beside Amy’s bed and asked God to grant her wisdom for ministering to her daughter’s need. As she prayed for Amy and considered her hurts, Mary knew what she needed to do. Instead of spending the evening with her friends, she would take Amy out for dinner and a manicure. It would be a sacrifice on her part, but this was more important.

When Amy came out of the shower and her mother shared her plans, Amy’s excitement confirmed that Mary had made the right decision.

Sacrifice is simply part of the job description for wives and mothers. We give up time, outings with friends, solitude, privacy, and personal goals almost daily. Out of love and concern for our families, we often put aside our own plans, preferences, and priorities. But while sacrifice is a sign of our love and devotion, we need to be careful lest resentment and bitterness take root. Ask Him to “fill your cup” so your spirit is refreshed. Then, as God leads, you can continue to serve others with grace and joy.