Doing It All While Single

To be a parent is one of the hardest jobs in the world . Yet parenting while single is on a completely different level . When I think of single parenting , my mind goes to Hagar . She was already a slave when given to Abram by Sarai . Because she was a slave , her pregnancy by Abram was not optional for her . To make matters worse , by traditional law , she was considered to be Abram’s wife ( because they had had relations ) yet she had none of the privileges . So here she was , a single parent raising her son in a difficult environment with seemingly no support .

I don’t know if you can relate to any part of her story , but know that if you’re a single parent , you’re not alone . Some of us understand having no one else to help in the middle of the night , having to clean every diaper , runny nose , and sticky hand . Then we help with every homework assignment and buy all the shoes and clothes .

You may want to run away like Hagar , but understand that only God gives life . Whether by adoption or from artificial or traditional insemination , anytime God allows you to parent one of His precious little ones , you’re blessed and highly favored . Even if you didn’t plan the little one , God’s plan provided for and equipped you to handle all that may be involved .

I treasure this wonderful and empowering quote about motherhood : “ The king upon his throne has no higher work than has the mother . The mother is queen of her household . She has in her power the molding of her children’s characters , that they may be fitted for the higher , immortal life . An angel could not ask for a higher mission ; for in doing this work she is doing service for God . Let her only realize the high character of her task , and it will inspire her with courage . Let her realize the worth of her work and put on the whole armor of God , that she may resist the temptation to conform to the world’s standard . Her work is for time and for eternity . ” *

So , my single - parenting sister , daily repeat to yourself , “ I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me ” and , “ God will never leave me nor forsake me . ”

 Now breathe deeply , pray , smile , and clean up any mess that has taken place while you were reading this devotional .

D . Reneé Mobley