Single Parent

Description

One of life’s greatest blessings and sources of joy is being called somebody’s parent. But if you find yourself raising children alone, you know better than anyone else that parenting is a job meant for two. That’s why Dr. James Dobson calls single parenting “the toughest job in the universe.” Few understand the loneliness and emotional hurt many single parents carry or how exhausting the role can be. Every parent is called to lay aside his or her own interests for the children. That calling takes extra commitment when you’re going at it alone.

Regardless of the emotions your specific circumstances may be causing, you are called to place your child’s needs above your own. Give them as much stability and nurturing as possible within your limitations – even though they may not seem to appreciate the sacrifice you’re making. You want healthy Christian friendships that can help you face this emotional maze and make wise decisions through it all. You need to be a part of a community of believers committed to forgiveness, redemption, and growth. Your children also need the support and modeling of other Christians to give them a vision for their own future home.

God can make your next chapter better than the last. Be careful not to see yourself as a “second class” parent. Raising children alone is harder, but the goal is the same for you as it is for two parent families – to nurture Christian faith and values in your children. Remember, it is no accident that God gave you the blessing of children. He also is eager to give you the grace to be the parent they need.