Peace & the Single Mom: By Jennifer MaggioSample

Get grateful.

One of my dearest friends and I have known each other for more than twenty years. Years ago, we both lived in the same apartment complex and often shared meals to save money. We had very little to call our own. As young single moms, we had furnished our government-issued apartments, albeit sparingly, with previously owned, heavily-used furniture, bedding, dishes, and the like. Often, we were the thankful recipients of others’ throwaways. We stretched every dollar farther than imaginable. We worked long hours and often had more debt than dollars. We clipped coupons, worked multiple jobs, held garage sales, etc. – whatever was necessary to ensure we provided for our young families. Something about my friend struck me years ago, and it is still true today. She is the most grateful woman I have ever met. I mean, she is truly, truly grateful. Whatever the season, this girl just oozes thanksgiving. Sadly, I cannot say I exhibit that same gratitude every day.

Step 3 to experiencing peace as a single mom: Thank God for what he’s done.

Gratitude cannot co-exist with complaining, grumbling, and whining. I know that for sure! I’ve done my fair share of the aforementioned! But I am also convinced that anxiety and worry will have a hard time co-existing when we have a heart and mind filled with a grateful spirit for all God has done. We cannot focus on lack and expect to experience the peace of God. It is God’s will for us to live an abundant life, according to Jesus’ own words. (See John 10:10). As we are reminded about all he has provided – family, friends, church, job, transportation, health, joy, salvation, children, laughter – we become less consumed with how he’ll provide for the next thing. We begin to move into trust, understanding that although we don’t know the outcome of a situation, we know God will work things for our good within the outcome.

Gratitude helps position our hearts with a softness towards our Heavenly Father as we recognize his generosity to us, already paying the ultimate price for our salvation and freedom. This fosters peace in the middle of life’s storms.

Points to Ponder:

• Create a gratitude jar or box for the family. Have each member of the family put one thing weekly they are grateful for. Discuss it over dinner.