As a single mother of two young children, I know what it feels like to wake up each morning already feeling behind. Between school drop-offs, meals, laundry, working full-time and the constant demands of parenting, unexpected bills, emotional exhaustion, or moments of loneliness: life can feel like one storm after another and it’s easy to feel like I’m drowning.
I’ll be honest: I haven’t always kept my faith steady. There have been days where I questioned God’s plan and nights where my prayers felt more like cries into the darkness. But I’ve learned, sometimes the hard way, that when life’s storms rage, I need an anchor. That anchor has always been God.
Below are a few practical, faith-based strategies that have helped me keep my eyes on Him when the waves of life threaten to pull me under. They’re not complicated, but they’ve made all the difference in keeping me grounded, hopeful, and renewed.
- Start Small with Scripture
Some mornings, I don’t have the energy for a long devotional or Bible study. But I’ve found that even a single verse can shift my perspective. I keep sticky notes with verses like “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10) on my bathroom mirror and inside my planner. Reading a verse while brushing my teeth reminds me that God is present in the middle of my chaos.
Tip: Pick one verse a week and repeat it throughout your day. Let it become a whisper of hope when stress rises.
- Pray in the Moments Between
I used to think prayer had to be long and formal, but motherhood doesn’t leave much room for quiet, extended time. Now I pray in the in-between moments: while folding laundry, driving to daycare, or even while waiting in line at the grocery store. Sometimes it’s as simple as, “Lord, give me strength,” or “Thank You for this moment.”
Tip: Replace anxious thoughts with breath prayers—short prayers you can repeat with each inhale and exhale. They keep your heart aligned with God without adding pressure to your busy day.
- Create a Gratitude Rhythm
Storms make it easy to focus on everything that’s missing. I’ve caught myself spiraling into frustration about what I don’t have. That’s when I stop and write down three things I do have—like my children’s laughter, a warm meal, or the way God always seems to send encouragement through a friend at just the right time. Gratitude doesn’t erase the hard stuff, but it reminds me that God is still providing.
Tip: Keep a gratitude journal by your bed. End each day by writing just one sentence of thanks. It’s a gentle reminder that you are not forgotten.
- Lean on Community
As single moms, it’s tempting to believe we have to do it all alone. But God designed us for community. Whether it’s a friend from church, a neighbor, or an online support group, I’ve learned that asking for help is not weakness—it’s wisdom. Sometimes God’s comfort comes through the hands and words of other people.
Tip: Reach out once a week to one trusted person. Share honestly, ask for prayer, or simply check in. Connection keeps your faith alive.
- Worship Through the Weary
There are days when my strength runs dry, and the only thing I can do is play worship music while making dinner or driving my kids. Singing along (even off-key) shifts the atmosphere in my home and my heart. Worship reminds me that even in my weariness, God is worthy and near.
Tip: Create a “Storm Season Playlist” filled with songs that remind you of God’s promises. Play it whenever discouragement creeps in.
Final Thoughts
Life as a single mother can feel like a never-ending storm, but storms don’t last forever—and neither does the weight of what you’re carrying. Every day you choose to cling to God, you’re teaching your children the power of faith in action. You don’t need to have it all together; you just need to stay anchored in the One who calms the seas.
So the next time the waves rise high, remember: You are not drifting alone. God is your anchor, and His love will hold you steady.
