Did you know that there are almost 10 million single moms today in the United States? Most of those women would tell you that this was not their preference. Divorce and death often put unsuspecting women into this situation, but there are many others who find they are raising children alone while their husbands are deployed for the military or travel for their employment. For some single moms it’s temporary, but for others they are the only parent in their home.
Whether or not the situation is permanent doesn’t matter. The feelings these sisters battle are often the same – loneliness, stress, and fatigue. These emotions are intensified when you deal with the pressures of life alone. As Christians, we find more of our friends in this situation. What can we do to show the love of Christ and offer them support?
6 Ways to Love & Support Single Moms
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Be a real friend.
Take a step beyond being an acquaintance and embrace her in true friendship. Sometimes the encouragement of a friend is all she needs to keep going. Decide to be her friend no matter what.
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Don’t judge.
Don’t look at her situation and try to figure out what went wrong. She doesn’t need you to criticize her life or how she is raising her children. God does not want us to look down on her or pass judgment on her life. She is equal and just as loved as any married woman in the sight of the Lord.
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Love her children.
I have seen people act like the children of divorce aren’t as good as their children. How evil is that? I am so thankful that the ground is level at the foot of the cross. Love her babies and encourage your children to be kind and friendly to them. Express your care for them and let them know they have a friend in you.
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Show kindness and generosity.
If you see a need in her life and can meet that need, do so. Sometimes a bag of groceries or a tank of gas can help her continue on during a time of financial strain. Perhaps you could buy her a little gift just for her – hand cream, a cute notebook, lip-gloss or a scented candle – any little treat can be a great encouragement. Maybe when you are picking up holiday treats for your kids, you could buy a few extra for her children, too. Tangible gift of love go a long way when you’re struggling.
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Be there for her.
Make sure she has your phone number in case she has an emergency. Tell her to let you know when she has a need or a special prayer request. Sit with her in the ladies Bible study or during a church service. Time is truly love and it will let her know you really do care.
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Pray for her.
Nothing will help more than prayer. We all need to be prayed for. Ask her what needs she would like you to pray for. Pray for her children. When you don’t know how to help or what to say, just pray for her. There is great power in the prayer of God’s children!
Single moms are our sisters in Christ and we need to be there for them and love them! Who is there in your life and circle of influence that walks through life with her little ones by herself? Walk alongside her and encourage and support her. When we do, we show God’s love in action.