7 Day Devotional for the Stepparent Намуна

Blended family complexity means patience is a must. “My stepson and I can find a good rhythm together in giving and receiving love —until he goes to his mom’s house for a few days. After that, he’s different with me for a while and we have to re-group.” This is a common experience for stepparents. Patience in that season is a must. 

You can also be patient with yourself. “In the beginning I felt so overwhelmed.  I had to step back and take a breather every once in a while, and when I felt like I could give again without feeling resentful that my stepkids weren’t speaking my love language.”  This form of self-care is wise, but be sure to explain to your spouse what you’re doing so they don’t resent you pulling back a little.

Ironically, eagerness trips up many well-intentioned stepparents. It sets you up to give without limits and expect it to be appreciated. Many “wicked stepmothers” are really just overly eager caregivers who are trying to make everything right for a child who has been through many painful experiences. Repairing the child’s life and being desperate for the child’s love and acceptance make many stepmoms appear to be overbearing and emotionally fragile.