Bills – in every color, every size, every font – were stacked on my dining room table, staring at me. How would I ever pay them?
I couldn’t call my ex-husband to help.
I couldn’t call my parents again.
I didn’t want to “borrow” from my kids’ funds.
Maybe I could find a rich boyfriend, … or play the lotto?
My options were all embarrassing and felt unbiblical. I was trapped and wrought with anxiety and hopelessness. I remember those first few years being a single parent and never wanting to wake up. Daylight meant more debt revealed as far as I was concerned. The worst part was not wanting to pass the sense of foreboding I felt onto my girls. The last thing I wanted was for them to experience stress because of my poor past choices.
In a world where financial stability often seems like an elusive dream, single parents – and families in general – face tremendous challenges. Raising children while navigating the complexities of earning a living can be overwhelming. However, as daunting as it may seem, there is hope and strength for us when we rely on God’s provision rather than solely on money. A parent – even a single parent – can cultivate a mindset of trust in God – even when all the evidence around you says the numbers won’t add up.
- Trust in God’s Promise of Provision
Scripture assures us of God’s faithfulness in providing for His children. In Matthew 6:26, Jesus reminds us of the care God extends to the birds of the air, highlighting how much more He values and provides for us, His beloved children. As a single parent, trust in God’s promise to supply your needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19). Cultivate a heart of gratitude for the provisions already bestowed upon you, knowing that God is faithful to sustain you through every season. How could a single parent with no credit find a three-bedroom apartment in a safe neighborhood within her price range? Trust in God alone.
- Practice Stewardship and Contentment
Embrace a lifestyle of stewardship and contentment, recognizing that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in a heart surrendered to God. Proverbs 15:16 teaches, “Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil.” Prioritize essentials over luxuries, wisely managing the resources God has entrusted to you. Through prudent budgeting and frugality, stretch your finances while maintaining a spirit of contentment, knowing that godliness with contentment is great gain (1 Timothy 6:6). When I stopped trying to keep up with friends and their ability to go on vacations or buy the latest gadgets, my life changed. I tithed when it didn’t make sense to the world. If I competed on anything, it was time with my girls. Children spell love “T-I-M-E.” No one can say they have spent more time with their children than I have!
- Seek First God’s Kingdom
In Matthew 6:33, Jesus instructs us to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, promising that all these things – including our material needs – will be added unto us. As a single parent, prioritize your relationship with God above all else. Invest time in prayer, seeking His guidance and wisdom in financial matters. Align your desires with God’s will, trusting that He will honor your commitment to seek Him first and provide for your needs abundantly. When my eyes were focused on Jesus, everything fell into place. Some will say that’s too simplistic, but it’s true. I kept my eyes on the Solution, and the problems began to fall away. The horizon was filled with the right options – not distracting ones.
- Embrace Community and Support
God often provides for His children through the love and generosity of others within the community. Acts 2:44-45 describes how the early believers shared everything they had, ensuring that no one among them was in need. Don’t hesitate to lean on your church family, friends, or support groups like Tuesday Night Care and Financial Mentoring for assistance when facing financial hardships. Likewise, be open to opportunities to bless others in need, recognizing that as you give, it will be given unto you (Luke 6:38). I used the Community Cupboard. I ate with friends and took leftovers at every opportunity. I took every opportunity to earn money with the talents God gave me. The hardest thing I did was accept $20 slipped into my hand after Bible study by a sister at church. The greatest day was when I slipped $20 into a friend’s hand when she needed it. God allowed me to pay it forward.
- Persevere in Faith
During times of financial strain, fear and anxiety can be overwhelming. However, Hebrews 11:1 reminds us that faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. As a single parent, anchor your faith in God’s promises, trusting that He is working all things together for your good (Romans 8:28). Persevere in prayer and faith, knowing that God is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). Faith saw me and my girls through everything – through homeschooling as a single parent, through the cost of extracurriculars, through electric bills, through college payments, and even car repairs and purchases. Faith saw us through everything.
My Hope for You
Dear Single Parent,
As you journey through the ups and downs of single parenthood, may you find strength and assurance in relying on God’s provision instead of a paycheck. Trust in His promise to supply all your needs, practice stewardship and contentment, seek first His kingdom, embrace your church community and support, and persevere in faith. Remember, cultivate moments with your kids, not material items. You are not alone in this journey. God is with you every step of the way, ready to provide, sustain, and bless you abundantly beyond measure.
Love,
Stephanie
If you would like to be supported in your journey as a single parent, join our class on Tuesday nights. The Tuesday Night Care lineup supports us in all seasons of our lives.
You can also learn more about financial stewardship at one of the upcoming Information Sessions.
If you need help or support, please contact Care.
If you are looking for activities to meet others, check out our Events.
If you are looking for people to do life with, connect with our Groups.