Moms, this one is for you. You who struggle to work and raise kids. Who are figuring it out as you go. Who are in it for the long haul – the rest of your life. No vacation days. No sick days. No pay other than the love deposited in your soul from countless hugs and kisses.

While preparing for the arrival of my first child, I was taught that labor lasted about ten hours. Six children and nearly two decades later, I now know that labor lasts a lifetime. The hard work of delivering and preparing another human being to live a purposeful life never ends.

Back when my first child arrived, I felt alone. None of my friends had kids. Most of my family lived far away. That is why I am so grateful that someone invited me to MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), a group of women who met twice a month in a local church basement for meaningful discussions, encouragement and friendship. Best of all, there was childcare!

MOPS International is a nondenominational nonprofit organization led by women in local churches all over the world. On Oct. 7th at 7 p.m. MOPS CEO Mandy Arioto will share at the East Auburn Baptist Church for “An Evening at the Well, Water for a Woman’s Soul,” along with singer/songwriter Mark Schultz, leading worship. Tickets to this event, which is for all women, are $23. Information is at eabcministries.com or by calling (207) 782-0348.

While the MOPS group I once attended is now closed, other groups still meet in the area and can be found through the MOPS website www.mops.org, which is full of encouraging resources. What I most remember about the group I attended was a chance to listen to the tips and ideas of more experienced moms, to relax and share my new-mom struggles, and to meet friends.

MOPS also offers groups to meet the needs of teen parents and moms of older children too! It’s hard raising kids. When we feel alone or feel unappreciated, it’s easy to get discouraged. But no mom should have to go it alone — for her own sake or for her children’s.

Women were often undervalued and mistreated in ancient times, but Scripture is full of stories about how God sees and meets women’s needs. One of my favorites is about Hagar, an Egyptian slave. After being mistreated by her mistress, Hagar wandered off in the wilderness. Pregnant and alone, she rested beside a spring where God spoke to her and blessed her. As a result, Hagar calls him, El Roi, “The one who sees” (Genesis 16:13).

We all feel lost sometimes. So if you find yourself wandering in a spiritual wilderness or challenged by difficulties, know that help and encouragement are available. God sees and is able to meet your needs.

Meadow Rue Merrill writes and reflects on God’s presence in her everyday life from a little house in the big woods of Mid-coast Maine.

Her memoir, “Redeeming Ruth,” releases in May 2017. Find her at www.meadowrue.com