Hope In My Journey

Have you ever wondered why things happen the way they do? Why do children ask, “Mom, why do I have to do it that way?” Quite often, you will find mom responding in a not so pleasant tone of voice, “Because I said so, that’s why!” Each day I’m confronted with little voices around me (my kids & my daycare kids) asking me “why?” I have to admit, it drives me CRAZY 99% of the time!

The more I find myself thinking of how annoying it is to hear the children ask me “why” all the time, I’ve come to realize just how hypocritical I am, when in reality, I’m constantly asking God, “Why???” I question why my marriage had to fall apart and why my children have to grow up without a father? As I’m writing this now, in my mind, I’m questioning why my daddy, a man that I love and look up to for wisdom and counsel, has to suffer with stage 4 lung cancer. With all the uncertain questions in life, one thing I know for sure…that God is in control. I may not understand it all, but I serve a God that knows exactly why.

Learning to Accept God’s Will

Life is filled with many sorrows, challenges, and disappointments. Job 14:1 says, “Man that is born of a woman is of a few days, and full of trouble.” Everywhere we look these days, our world is full of troubles. It comes in every form and fashion. It does not descriminate. It matters not if you’re rich, poor, black, white, young, or old. Trouble affects everyone! The question is, how will you let it affect you? Will you handle your problems as a victim or a victor?

It’s so easy for me to look at my situation, wonder why I’m going through such heavy burdens, and start feeling sorry for myself. Sometimes I look at couples holding hands, and without meaning it, I become resentful. There are other times I see two-parent families in public looking so happy and I wish, “Why can’t my family be as happy as that family?” This is where my victim mode of life kicks in and it eventually robs me of the joys of being a parent and loving my children. At this point, I’m not content with my circumstances so I wallow in self-pity. The only way back to true acceptance of God’s will is through His Word.

Over and over again, I find strength in the Word of God. When I read and meditate on Scripture verses, I find peace in the midst of my trials. Here are some Scriptures that give me courage to become a victor and not a victim. I pray they will help you as well:

1. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

2. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me…But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:13,19

3. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. Galatians 6:9

4. I will sing unto the LORD, because he hath dealt bountifully with me. Psalm 13:6

5. ….thou art the helper of the fatherless. Psalm 10:14

Of course, this is not an exhaustive list of verses we can gain strength from, but you get the point. Rely on the Word of God to help you overcome!

Be Joyful!

As much as I would like to change my situation, I’m learning to live life from where I am right now! About 3 years ago, our church had our annual mother-daughter banquet. At the time, I began dealing with some unknown health issues, so I really wasn’t up to going to this event. I didn’t want to disappoint my sweet daughter, so I decided to tough it out and go. Although physically I felt like being at home in bed that day, I’m so thankful I went. My pastor’s wife always comes up with entertaining, yet thought-provoking topics for our ladies events. That particular year the topic was, “Bloom where you’re planted.” From that day forward, I have pondered on the idea that God has placed ME in our home to tend to my garden (my children) and I need to bloom (let the Lord use me) right where I am. No one else can care for my children and love them like I can. I know there are many good teachers out there, but only a mother has her child’s best interest at heart. This is one of the reasons why I continue to homeschool as a single mother. Yes, it’s hard! Some days, I want to pull what little hair I have on my head out, but the pros outweigh the cons by far. It’s definitely worth the sacrifice and by the grace of God, the journey will continue!

So, single mama, are you discouraged? Are you constantly asking God “Why?” Are you looking for the road of least resistance? It’s time for us to stop asking, “why” and start asking, “what?” Ask the Lord what he wants you to do in your life right now with your family. Ask Him how you can glorify Him in your situation. We need to be an example not only to other single mothers, but also to our children as well. They only model what they see. If they see us discouraged, they will be discouraged. If they see us living discontented, they will be as well. Ouch!!! Did I actually say that? This is so convicting to me! I still have so much to learn!

So, ladies, let’s learn together. Let’s enjoy being a “joyful mother of children” (Psalm 113:9), and allow God to mold us and make us into what He wants us to be. Until next time…Happy Parenting! ♡