A Never Ending Task - Being a Single Mom 11

Last week’s article focused on the relentless patience a single mom needs to guide her family. It is hard work, and it is never ending. I can only imagine how hard it must be to implement processes to change not only your own life, but to try to do the same in the lives of your children – at the same time. It is not easy!

We discussed sibling rivalries and the reality that in some homes fighting and bickering amongst children is a daily occurrence. All attempts to bring about peace fail, and only seem to fuel antagonism. The persistent nature of this can be discouraging, and it can result in a stressed mom wanting to give up. Why bother when it seems obvious that ongoing fighting and warring in the home shows there has been no change. And no change right now seems like there will never be any change. If this is you, maybe you’re struggling with sentiments of failure. Life is complicated, and rebellious children are easier to ignore than to attempt consistent correction.

Has this mom failed? Has her momentary setback in thoughts ended her resolve for her family? I don’t think so!

When thoughts of defeat and hopelessness threaten and bring about rebellion in our own hearts, it’s time to take a deep breath. It’s time to remind ourselves of our reality. We are not alone. The Lord has ordained this season of our / my life. He will equip me for it.

I must depend on Him!

Then, it is time to plan again. Plan your responses for the difficult seasons – plan how you will act. Resolve to respond like an expert. Strategize how to implement principles for a long term outcome. Change is not an event. Often – most often – it is a lengthy process. Without a firm commitment to be steadfast, impatience and frustration will rule. Persistence, patience and perseverance will bring a reward. It may take time – much time – but it will!

Examine your reality in light of the following verses, what can you glean from them? How would the Lord have you think about your life, and your reality? What is your reality?

• Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect (Romans 12:2).

• The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage (Proverbs 21: 5).

• Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things (Philippians 4:6-8).

• Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered (Proverbs 11:25).

• The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied (Proverbs 13:4).

#patience #faithful