7 Day Devotional for the Stepparent Shembull

A child’s “pace” should inform a stepparent’s pursuit of their heart. Gauge a child’s level of openness to you and match it.

Normally, we caution you to not be pushy with your love toward your stepchild, nor demanding love from them. But the principle of pace trumps all of that. If a child has thrown herself wide open to you, disregard the general precautions and go for it! However, matching their level of openness also means backing off if they are closed or uncertain of how to receive you. Sometimes it’s not personal at all; their visitation schedule or life situation can determine how much time you are together. You have to make the most of what they give you and the opportunities you have and trust that time will multiply the impact.