Let’s build on our previous weeks’ encouragement. How did everything go? Were you able to take a step out of Stuck and Grow Forward? I know it’s difficult with the responsibilities of life swirling around you like an angry vortex, but I also know that God provides what we need. Not only to endure, but to forge ahead, even against the most grave circumstances.

For most of us, kids are preparing to start school this week, if they haven’t already. And that, in and of itself, is crazy making. My head spins just thinking about all the details I have to manage in order to get them ready for the first few weeks of school. All the forms, supplies, meetings, appointments, sporting activities, drop-off times and pick-up times, homework, packing lunches, and the DRAMA of peer relationships…ugh!!

In the effort to check off everything on our mommy to-do lists, we can easily get caught up in the invisibility of being a single-mom because there is just no reward in sight sometimes. No pats on the back, no ‘atta girl’, no real acknowledgement. And sometimes it is really, really hard to keep on going.

Can you relate? Do you feel invisible? Do you feel like nobody notices or cares how hard you are working? One thing is for certain, even though you may think nobody knows the extent of your sacrifice, God sees your efforts. Let me say that again… God sees you! Yes, God sees you my sweet, and hard working mom. And he also sees your efforts.

When you feel like you have nothing left to give…don’t give up! Don’t give in. There’s no denying that you are in a tough season—lots of hard work with little reward. But keep in mind, you are not alone in this battle.

And if negativity creeps up, don’t let it. Shift your focus off the past and the limitations it represents and instead look ahead like our verse this week implores us to do. Forgetting what is behind means disengage yourself from the identity of being a victim. You are not a victim in Christ, you are victorious and beautiful and capable. Own it. Let God heal those parts of you that are broken. He has new marching orders for you, my friend. And they are leading you heavenward. March on, my soul; be strong! (Judges 5:21b)

Reflect and Respond:

This week, pick one situation that feels out of control and is requiring more of your energy, resources, and time than you feel you can give. Then, give it to God. Invite him into the situation and surrender your power for his.

Then… this is the biggie… give yourself some credit for ALL you do! You are a good mom and doing an amazing job. BRAVO!!! God has good plans for you and your children. Trust him this week by leaning into him. He will not let you fall!!

Remember, you are not alone. Have a blessed week.