Being a single parent can be incredibly challenging. Whether due to divorce, death of a spouse, or having a child outside of marriage, single parents have unique struggles and hardships. However, God cares deeply for single parents and offers hope, wisdom, and help in His Word. Here is an overview of some of the key biblical themes related to single parenting:
God cares for the fatherless and defends the cause of widows
The Bible frequently emphasizes God’s love and care for those without family support like orphans and widows. For example, “A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.” (Psalm 68:5) “The Lord watches over the foreigner and sustains the fatherless and the widow.” (Psalm 146:9) As a single parent, you can be assured that God cares deeply about your situation and wants to help defend and provide for you.
Seek the Lord in your parenting
One of the most important things single parents can do is consistently seek the Lord for wisdom and guidance in raising children. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) Pray for direction, read God’s Word, and surround yourself with godly community.
In particular, single moms can be intentional about cultivating a strong spiritual life. “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33) As you prioritize your relationship with God, he will help you handle all that comes with being a single mom.
Rely on God’s strength
Parenting alone has unique challenges and can be mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually draining. That’s why it’s crucial to rely on God for strength and endurance. “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:31) Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus through constant prayer.
In addition, don’t be afraid to ask others for help and support when needed. “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) Seek a community of believers who can assist you along the way.
Pursue godly wisdom and discipline
Raising children alone means you have to be both the nurturer and the disciplinarian. Seek wisdom from the Word about how to lovingly correct your children. “My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.” (Proverbs 3:11-12) Patiently discipline as God disciplines you.
In addition, recognize the importance of structure and boundaries. “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” (Proverbs 22:6) Routines, chores, and clear guidelines can help produce responsible adults despite growing up in a single parent home.
Be quick to forgive
As a single parent, you may face hurtful words and actions from ex-spouses, the other biological parent, extended family, friends, or even your children. Follow God’s model of quick forgiveness. “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” (Colossians 3:13) Bitterness will only make a hard job harder.
In addition, humbly examine your own actions. “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?” (Matthew 7:3) No parent is perfect, so apologize to your kids when you make mistakes as well.
Surround your kids with godly influences
Raising kids alone means you have to be extra intentional about surrounding them with strong Christian influences. “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” (Proverbs 13:20) Seek out mentors, church families, coaches, teachers, and friends who live out their faith.
In particular, look for godly examples of the gender of the non-custodial parent. Single dads can connect their daughters with a strong Christian woman. Single moms can seek out male role models for their sons. Be creative and proactive in building relationships.
Don’t lose heart
There will be lonely nights, endless demands, and times you feel completely exhausted and disheartened. During those times, remember God’s promises. “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9) Keep sowing seeds of love and godly discipline.
Also, recall you aren’t really alone. “God sets the lonely in families.” (Psalm 68:6) Draw close to Him for comfort, strength, and rest when you need it most. God will never leave you or forsake you during this important parenting journey.
Trust God with your child’s future
It’s only natural as a single parent to worry about the future of your children. However, ultimately their lives are in God’s hands. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11) Release fears and anxiety to Christ daily.
Your job is simply to raise them in the Lord to the best of your ability. “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4) As you daily seek God in how to parent, you can trust Him to shape your child’s future.
Have hope
While being a single parent is challenging, you have so much to hope for! God promises to be with you every step of the way when you follow Him. “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” (Zephaniah 3:17) You are not alone!
In addition, God is able to redeem your story and use your family for His purposes. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28) Surrender your struggles to God and see what He may do.
Single parenting is difficult, but you can absolutely raise godly children. By relying on God’s strength and wisdom while surrounding your kids with Christian love and support, you can make a lasting impact for Christ.