The Single Christian: Living as One in a World of Twos

Living Free Every Day®

Today's Scripture
"A friend is always a friend, and relatives are born to share our troubles. " Proverbs 17:17 CEV

Thoughts for Today
If you are a single parent, you have probably found that no matter how hard you try or how excellent your parenting skills, you cannot be both a father and a mother to your child. Many single parents try to fill both roles. This is unrealistic and impossible and can lead to a real sense of frustration and exhaustion. It is vital that you are willing to share the load.

Consider this …
All children need exposure to both male and female approaches to parenting. In looking for an appropriate role model for your child, ask for help from someone you trust. As you search for the right person or persons to fill this role, make sure that any person who takes this kind of role in your child's life has a healthy interest in your child's well-being, and not an unhealthy one.

Effective role models may be siblings, aunts, uncles, grandparents or others who are present in your child's life. If you don't have any family who can help in this way, explore the possibility of someone in your church or try an organization like Big Brothers Big Sisters. Don't try to do it alone. Help is available!

Prayer
Father, sometimes I struggle to be both father and mother to my children. Help me to remember that help is available and to be willing to ask for that help. Please guide me in making good choices. In Jesus' name …

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These thoughts were drawn from …

The Single Christian: Living as One in a World of Twos by Dr. Elizabeth Holland. In a world where everyone seems to have a mate, it is difficult to live life as a single person. Whether you have never been married, are divorced or are widowed, this study is for you. In The Single Christian, Dr. Holland examines many of the different facets of singleness, from rejection; bitterness and unforgiveness; loneliness; to dating; single parenting and the positives of being single. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals.

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