Dear Single Mom, You’re Doing Great! 10 Devotions of God’s Love Amid the ChaosSample

FEAR IS NOT YOUR FRIEND

My friends and I stood in line at the movie theater to get our tickets. It was a rare night out for me— especially to see a “grown-up” movie (i.e., something not animated or showing on Disney+).

“Ma’am, I’m sorry. Your card was declined.”

Panic seized my heart. I knew there was plenty of money in my account—or was there? Had I missed something? Had something been stolen?

Although my friend paid for my ticket that night, I spent the entire movie worrying until I could get home later and check my bank balance. I nearly made myself sick, and I missed the whole movie. Turns out—my balance was fine. It must have been a glitch in the system. But all that worry? It was for nothing.

Dear single mama, the weight of worry can often feel like an ever-present companion. It may seem like a natural response, a way to prepare for the unexpected challenges life may throw your way. Yet, in reality, worry serves only to drain your energy, leaving you depleted and anxious over imagined scenarios that may never come to pass.

In the face of worry and anxiety, the words of Jesus’ friend Peter offer a beacon of hope. He urges us to release our burdens, casting our cares on Jesus, who is our refuge and strength. Clinging to worry, he suggests, is a subtle indication of a lack of trust in God’s provision and care. Yet God stands ready to shoulder our worries, offering us peace in exchange for our burdens.

God is not distant or indifferent to your struggles, Mama. He is intimately involved in every aspect of your life, including your role as a single mom. Entrusting your worries to Him does not mean ignoring your responsibilities or challenges. Rather, it is an act of faith, acknowledging that He alone has the power to bring balance and peace to your life.

Choose to surrender your worries today to Jesus. Each time anxiety threatens to overwhelm you, consciously release it into His capable hands, trusting in His faithfulness to guide you and sustain you through everything you face today.

Lord, I don’t do myself any favors when I worry. Help me to cast all my cares onto You today. I know You care for me. Amen.