The Silent Struggles of Single Parenting

The Silent Struggles of Single Parenting: God’s Strength in Our Weakness

By www.comebroken.co.uk

Single parenting is one of life’s most demanding journeys. It is often carried out behind closed doors, where the tears, exhaustion, and endless responsibilities remain unseen by others. Many single parents carry silent struggles—financial stress, emotional fatigue, loneliness, and the burden of raising children without a partner’s support. Yet, in the midst of these challenges, the Word of God assures us: you are not alone.

The Bible says in Psalm 68:5, “A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.” This promise reminds us that God Himself steps in where earthly help may be lacking.

1. Financial Pressures — Trusting Jehovah Jireh

Managing bills, childcare, and daily needs on a single income can feel overwhelming. Many single parents are stretched beyond their limits, working multiple jobs or living in constant worry about making ends meet.

But Scripture calls us to lift our eyes above our circumstances:

Philippians 4:19 — “And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

God is Jehovah Jireh — our Provider. Though the resources may seem limited, His provision is never lacking. Single parents can lean on Him daily in prayer, asking for wisdom to manage finances, strength to persevere, and favor for unexpected blessings.

2. Emotional Burnout — Finding Rest in Christ

Single parents often play multiple roles—provider, nurturer, protector, and disciplinarian. The mental and emotional load can feel crushing, leading to burnout, guilt, and loneliness.

Yet Jesus extends a tender invitation:

Matthew 11:28 — “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

Rest doesn’t just mean physical sleep; it means resting in God’s presence. Prayer, worship, and immersing yourself in Scripture are not luxuries, but lifelines for the weary soul. A single parent’s strength comes from learning to surrender the load daily at Christ’s feet.

3. The Impact on Children — Raising Them in the Lord

Children in single-parent households may experience confusion, sadness, or a longing for the missing parent. Some may even battle identity or behavioral struggles. But parents are called to anchor their children in God’s truth:

Proverbs 22:6 — “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”

Even if the family structure looks different, God’s design for nurturing children remains the same: teach them His Word, pray with them, and model faith. As you sow seeds of truth, God promises to water them and bring fruit in your child’s life.

4. Loneliness — God as Companion and Husband

Many single parents experience deep loneliness without adult companionship or emotional support. But Scripture offers a tender reminder:

Isaiah 54:5 — “For your Maker is your husband—the Lord Almighty is His name—the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer.”

God promises to fill the gaps of companionship. He draws near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18) and assures us of His constant presence. Joining a Christ-centered community, church family, or fellowship group can also provide encouragement and accountability.

Coping Through Christ — Practical and Spiritual Solutions

Build Support & Community

• Access local and national support: Organisations that offer free helplines, community forums, and local peer groups—practical life-lines for advice on benefits, legal issues, and support networks .

• Join peer-led groups- these support mental health, reduces isolation, and builds resilience with workshops, peer encouragement, and wellbeing programmes

Reframe the Narrative

Some have found strength in shifting from “single” to “solo parenting”—embracing empowerment rather than deficit. Delegate tasks appropriately, set realistic expectations, and give yourself grace .

Manage Finances Strategically

• Budget carefully & seek help: Track expenses, delegate chores to older children, explore remote/flexible work, and access support programmes .

Prioritise Self-Care & Mental Health

• Set aside “breathing time” even if brief—take walks, pray, rest.

Seek professional help: If burnout or mental health issues arise, counselling

Prayer as Your Foundation

Daily prayer brings clarity, peace, and strength. Teach your children to pray with you, anchoring your household in God’s promises.

Scripture as Your Guide

Keep encouraging verses visible in your home—on the fridge, mirrors, or in your child’s room. Let God’s Word be the loudest voice in your struggles.

Church and Community Support

Engage with your local church family for support, mentorship, and encouragement. God often uses His people to meet our needs.

Healthy Stewardship

Ask God for wisdom in finances, parenting, and decision-making. Lean on biblical principles of stewardship and contentment (Luke 16:10).

Self-Care Through God’s Grace

Rest is not selfish—it is obedience. Care for your health and mental well-being so you can serve your family with renewed strength.

Single parenting is not a mark of failure, but a testimony of resilience and God’s sustaining grace. What may feel like weakness is the very place God’s power is perfected.

2 Corinthians 12:9 — “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.”

Remember: you are never truly parenting alone. Every tear you cry is seen, every prayer is heard, and every step is strengthened by the One who walks beside you.

At ComeBroken.co.uk, we believe God specializes in healing brokenness and building beauty from ashes. No matter your starting point, His plans for you and your children are filled with hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).

You are not broken. You are chosen. You are equipped. And in Christ, you—and your children—will thrive.

For a FREE 20 minute counselling session email willandefe@comebroken.co.uk