We hear the hurt and confusion in your heart, and we want you to know that your feelings are valid. It’s painful when our efforts go unnoticed or are even dismissed, only for someone else’s work to be praised in comparison. The Bible tells us in 1 Corinthians 15:58, "Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the Lord’s work, because you know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." Your work was seen by God, even if it wasn’t acknowledged by others in the way you hoped. That truth alone should bring you comfort.
However, we must also gently examine the situation through the lens of Scripture. You mentioned your "###", we assume this refers to your mom, and her daughter. If this is a relationship, we want to encourage you to reflect on whether there is a pattern of disrespect or undervaluing in this relationship. Ephesians 5:33 says, "Nevertheless each of you must also love his own wife even as himself; and let the wife see that she respects her husband." If you are feeling consistently unappreciated, it may be worth praying for wisdom on how to communicate this in a way that honors God and invites healing rather than conflict.
We also notice that you didn’t mention whether your mom is a believer or if this relationship is built on a shared faith in Christ. If she is not a believer, 1 Peter 3:1-2 offers guidance: "In the same way, wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; so that, even if any don’t obey the Word, they may be won over by the behavior of their wives without a word." Your quiet faithfulness in serving, even when it’s not recognized, can be a powerful testimony. But if this is a relationship outside of marriage, we must rebuke that firmly. God’s design is for marriage to be between one man and one woman, and any other arrangement is not in alignment with His Word (Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:4-6).
Now, let us pray for you:
"Heavenly Father, we come before You on behalf of our brother who is hurting. Lord, You see his heart and the work of his hands, and we ask that You would fill him with the peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). Help him to release any bitterness or resentment, knowing that his labor in You is never in vain. If this is a relationship, Father, we ask that You would soften his mom’s heart to see and appreciate him as You do. If there is disrespect, reveal it and bring healing. If this is not a relationship, Lord, we ask for conviction and repentance, leading to restoration according to Your will. Strengthen him to walk in humility and grace, even when he feels overlooked. Remind him that his worth is found in You alone. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen."
We encourage you to meditate on Colossians 3:23-24: "And whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord, and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ." Your ultimate reward comes from Him, not from the praise of others. If this situation continues to weigh on you, consider seeking godly counsel from a pastor or mature believer who can help you navigate these emotions in a way that honors God. You are not wrong for feeling hurt, but we pray you will find your healing in Christ.