I was in the car driving my son to get McDonald’s his favorite Happy Meal and I just received a message from his dad with much negativity. I asked God, how can I be a good steward over your son, the gift you have given me to raise. I realized that I can not be both mother and father, but God gives grace and wisdom. Oftentimes, we try to fill in the gaps of parenting as a single mom with toys and trips for ice cream neglecting how the child is feeling and their experiences as a child. I begin to reflect; am I displaying good characteristics as a mom, am I nurturing, and developing my son in the things of God, does he feel safe to talk to me regarding how he feels? All these things are important, especially as I am raising God’s son, and someone’s future husband. I begin to reflect on the following scriptures:
“As one whom his mother comforts, so will I comfort you; and ye shall be comforted in Jerusalem.” Isaiah 55:13
God will give you comfort as you comfort the gifts he has given you. Rest in the peace of God knowing that He has equipped you with all you need as a Godly mother. Just as God gives us peace as we carry out His purpose, we also provide comfort to our children, raising them, nurturing them, uplifting them and teaching them about the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
“Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. She looketh well to the ways of her household, and earth not the bread of idleness.” Proverbs 31:25-27
As single mothers, we do not walk in our own strength, but the strength of God. Knowing that He is our provider, our shield, and Father. In knowing these things, we operate in the wisdom He was given us to run our households. Maintaining cleanliness, and being resourceful knowing that we are one of the role models of our homes, and our children are always observing how we carry out the affairs of our household.
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6
As a parent, we must be committed to the training and discipline of our children. We must dedicate time to teach them the fruit of the Spirit, and on the love of our Lord Jesus Christ that God’s purpose may be fulfilled in their lives. Our children are not here by accident. We must teach them devotion to God and being a good steward over the things God has given them. I’ve learned even in my own childhood that receiving teaching and guidance at a young age helps when you begin to endure the trials of life as an adult. It is important that we equip our children, that they are rooted in Christ.