As a single parent, you are part of this country's 10 million moms or dads raising children alone. 10 million is a lot of folks, but that large group isn't very useful when you're the only parent available at 3:00 in the morning to comfort a fussy toddler. When something like that happens, you feel most, what you are a lot of the time - alone! It is the opinion of many family educators and counselors, that single parents have the toughest job in the world. Parenting with the teamwork of a supportive spouse is a hard job, but doing the work all alone has to be more stress-filled and absolutely never-ending. There is always so much work to be done. You must work to provide an income - for housing, food, insurance, transportation, etc. And then there's your home and family life: you cook, clean, do laundry and take care of your child's needs for school, sports, friends, and other activities. Where does a single parent find the luxury of time to revive your drained energy?

 

First of all, change your thinking: it is not a luxury. Having time to recharge yourself is an absolute necessity. It may be useful to know that even Jesus took time away from the busyness of his life preaching, teaching, healing and saving folks. After a stressful event, the Bible tells us that he just went away by himself, "when Jesus had heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place" (Matthew 14:13). Luke 5 tells us that Jesus withdrew often from his work just to pray! No one knew more about how much work there was to do then Jesus -- and yet he also knew the importance of refilling his spirit, resting his body and mind, and renewing his soul.

 

As single parents you have a tough, demanding and important job. You cannot jeopardize the success of your goal of raising a healthy, happy, and God-centered child by running out of what you need to do this job. The solution: find a friend to help you with your errands, chores and childcare needs. Every single parent needs at least one adult who can be involved in your life. Ask a parent, a neighbor, a church friend, a pastor, youth minister - someone to partner with you and be part of your team! Join an adult class at your church, or a parenting support group, or a single's ministry to find the adult care you need. And remember: be faithful to your own prayer and Bible study time.

 

Take care of yourself. You are your kids most important person- you're too important to neglect.

 

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