When Life Feels Like Too Much (But God Still Shows Up)
Single Parent Parabales
This past week? Whew. Let’s
just say it’s been a ride—and not in the car I’d hoped to be driving.
First, my beloved flip phone (yes, a real-deal Razor!) took a tragic tumble and ended up with a cracked screen. Then, just when I thought I could shake that off, my car gave up on me. I thought it was just the battery, but now I’m almost certain it’s the alternator. And let me tell you—I was this close to having a full-blown adult tantrum. Like, tears, kicking-the-air, "why me, Lord?!" level tantrum.
But I paused.
Instead of spiraling, I took a deep breath and whispered, “Okay God… it could be worse. Thank You for not putting more on me than I can bear.” Because while this might seem like a small hiccup to some, to me? It’s major. Right now, I’ve got just enough to cover rent and groceries. Surprise expenses weren’t in this week’s budget plan!
Still, I know God well enough to recognize when He’s trying to get my attention. And before anyone jumps in with, “Well, that’s why you need regular car maintenance,” let me stop you there. I have been taking care of my car. In fact, it passed state inspection the day before it broke down. So, no—this isn’t about negligence. This is one of those curve balls life throws at you just when you feel like you’re catching up.
As a single parent, unexpected challenges tend to show up like surprise dinner guests—just when you’ve only made enough food for the people you actually invited. And while my first instinct was to throw a fit, I stopped and said, “Alright Lord, this must be another faith-growing moment.”
God knows what I need to do. He sees the places I need to be, the bills I need to pay, the rides my kids still need. So, I asked Him for mercy, for grace, for clarity—and for help slowing down and refocusing. Because this is my trusting season.
Right in that moment, the Holy Spirit reminded me of Elijah.
“Your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.”
— Matthew 6:8
In 1 Kings 17, God tells Elijah to flee from Ahab and hide by the brook Cherith, where He commands ravens to feed him bread and meat—morning and evening. Let that sink in. God used birds to deliver food. If that’s not proof of His character as a loving, creative provider, I don’t know what is.
The moment that came to mind, I grabbed my Bible. Elijah obeyed. He didn’t question. He trusted. And I made the decision: I will too. Whether it’s a broken phone or a dead car, I’ll trust that God will provide.
If you’re in a season like mine—feeling uncertain, financially stressed, or just emotionally worn—know this: after the brook dried up, God again provided. He sent Elijah to a widow, someone unexpected, to sustain him. And she did.
So even when your “brook” runs dry, trust that provision is on the way.
God knows what you need. He’s already working behind the scenes. He doesn’t need reminders—He needs your trust.
A Prayer for Provision and Peace
If you're not sure where to start with prayer, let me help. Here’s something you can use when you’re feeling overwhelmed:
Dear Heavenly Father,
I come to You in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Lord, You see everything I’m up against. You know my exact situation—every detail (name it out loud here). I ask that the Holy Spirit intercede for me, even when I don’t have the words. You are Jehovah Jireh, my Provider, and Your Word proves it over and over.
Lord, I’m asking You to provide for my needs—according to Your will, not mine. Let Your Spirit guide me and give me peace in the waiting. I thank You for Your grace, Your mercy, and Your perfect timing. Help me to lay these worries at Your feet and not pick them back up.
I trust You. I love You. I believe You’ll make a way.
In Jesus’ name I pray,
Amen.
Your Sister in Christ,
- T
