I don’t know why you’re single. Maybe you are divorced (Scriptural or un-scriptural), or maybe you are married but spiritually single (meaning you are raising your children with no other spiritual helper in the home). This is one of the toughest positions, and few can sympathize with you because few have been there. People in this position are not generally in the position by choice. 

A few words to the single parent… 

You are not alone. Countless folks have served the Lord with fervency and faith and raised children without a helper in the home. It is discouraging and disheartening and provides occasion for jealousy seeing all those who have what you want… Count your blessings and stay the course. God sees (see Psalm 139). 

You can do it. There is no question that this will be difficult, but you can do it. Furthermore, you must do it. Your kids are counting on you. They need you to rise to the task and tackle it. They have no one else who can do it. In many ways, you will have to work even harder… You must be ever-vigilant. Your task is too great, and there is too much at stake. We have an adversary who would love nothing more than an opportunity to devour your children (see 1 Peter 5:8). March onward! 

You will need help. It won’t come from a spouse, although this is the place God designed for help. It will likely need to come through the brethren. If you are a single mother, your kids need a good spiritual father figure. Your son needs influence who is serious about their faith. Talk to one of your elders and see if he will take your son fishing. No elders? Ask one of the men in the congregation that you trust. If you are a single father, your kids need a good spiritual mother figure. Find a sister and regularly get help. She can show your daughter how to bake, fix hair, or match dress colors, things most fathers can’t. She can show you a few tricks for girl’s hair; your daughter will appreciate that. Your brethren want to help you (see Colossians 3:12-17). 

A few words to the rest of us… 

Be sympathetic. They could use extra encouragement in this lonely and challenging place.