The Single Parenting Voyage
Single parenting is probably the most difficult situation that I have been in during my parenting years. The demands of the family don’t change, but the responsibilities double.
Fathers that end up single often have to take on the role of housekeeping and nurturing, while Mothers have to take on the role of home maintenance and discipline. Many previous
stay at home moms
have to start providing financial support for the family.
The responsibilities of
one parent households
alone can cause major shock, and then there are the worries that the lack of one parent and lack of time for parental involvement will affect the development of the children.
My Advice… Get support!
Developing
Christian relationships
for both you and your children is very helpful in a one parent home. Participate in a
small group bible study
(or start your own for single parents), get your kids involved in youth groups or special church programs for boys or girls.
In such settings you will develop Christian relationships that will provide support for you – perhaps even trading babysitting or household chores in addition to inspiration – and your children will have a positive outlet to assist with their Christian growth and overall development.
I was paranoid that my boys wouldn’t have enough interaction from a male role model when their Father left. I got them involved in
Royal Rangers
and
Frontiersmen Camping Fellowship
. They have learned so many different things, that I personally could not have taught them, from mature Christian men who actually teach morals in addition to manly tasks.
Time management tips to make life easier…
It is easy to get caught up the day to day tasks when running a household. Be sure to plan time for yourself in addition to quality family time. Spend time with Jesus, study the Bible and pray every day. Starting the day out the right way will make the rest of day go more smoothly.
Single Christian parenting
is not simple, but it becomes a lot easier if you remain aware of God’s promises and stay inspired. A one parent home is not God’s design…
"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all of these things [necessities] will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)
This verse kept me going during my days as a single parent. It doesn't matter if you get everything done, you have to decide what is really important.
Do you need inspiration or parenting advice regarding being a one parent homemaker?
Here are some articles and resources that you may find helpful and inspiring during your voyage of raising children alone…
P.S. If you haven’t already,
subscribe now
to receive my monthly newsletter “Christian Parenting Hearts”. It will keep you informed of new Christian Parenting Resources.
You can also
sign up
for a RSS feed to get updated book reviews, movie reviews and so forth as they become available.
Return to Christian Parenting Devotion Home

|