Answers

Q:

I really want to serve Jesus, but I don't know how I can. I'm a single mother with three children, and I just don't have any extra time. My church offers things like volunteer opportunities and mission trips, but I can't even dream of them. Does God understand why I can't serve Him?


A:

Did it ever occur to you that you’re already serving God by being a good mother to your children? Few tasks are harder than raising a family (especially for single parents) — but few are more important. Where would your children be without you?

Remember: God gave your children to you — and He gave you to them. The Bible says, “Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him” (Psalm 127:3). Don’t take this lightly! You may have a “congregation” of only three — but take your responsibilities as a parent just as seriously as if you were pastor of a church or a missionary in a foreign land.

Why did He give them to you? One reason, of course, was to take care of their physical and emotional needs. Someday they’ll grow up and leave home; will they be prepared for adulthood? Will they know how to do practical things like take care of their finances and avoid danger and make wise decisions? Ask God to help you teach them to be responsible adults.

But God also gave them to you so you could help them build a strong moral and spiritual foundation. Make sure of your own commitment to Christ — and then ask Him to help you point your children to Jesus. It will be your greatest service.