When a Stepmom PraysNäide

The stepmom role can be an ambiguous one. We enter a family already in motion. Finding our place in that situation can be daunting.

We often spend a lot of time trying to figure out where we belong and what we are supposed to be doing. There will be seasons of feeling certain of our role in the family. Many stepmoms will face times of trying to find their balance. Wanting to be part of the group but avoiding stepping on toes is a delicate practice.

Discerning our role in the family, stepmoms spend time with self help books, life coaches, social media groups. And all play a wonderful part of our support system. We reach out to each other asking questions and trying to discern just what it is we are to be doing as part of the stepfamily.

It is truly a gift knowing we can also turn to the Lord with our confusion and questions. In 2 Samuel 2:1 David is wrestling with questions about how to care for his people, his family. He has trusted advisors and yet he turns to the Lord.

I love the example of prayer we are given in this passage. David poses his questions very specifically to God. Should he move? If yes, where should he go? There’s no ambiguity about that. The man was facing problems and needed answers. He did not waste time. There were people to care for, just like a stepmom with a family already in motion.

We can also approach the Lord with the uncertainty that comes with being a stepmom. Those times of working out how best to support the children, building relationships with the other home, fostering a parent role where none existed. These are situations about which we can ask the Lord, and He loves to share those moments with us.

As we consider the example of David, let’s pray together: Lord, thank you for the opportunity to approach you with specific concerns for my stepfamily. When I feel uncertain or face an issue, I know I can come to you. Amen.