The phrase ‘God bless the child that’s got his own’ from Billie Holiday’s song underscores the value of autonomy and self-reliance, highlighting that having one’s own resources is advantageous; nonetheless, true strength lies not in solo survival. Christ never intended for us to travel life’s hills and valleys alone. While this phrase emphasizes a trait of self-sufficiency that I admire, it’s essential to know that God has our backs, serving as a source of strength, comfort, and wisdom, along with sending us measures of His love throughout life’s journey.
Megan, a divorced mother of three who is fiercely independent due to an unstable upbringing, typically demonstrates remarkable resourcefulness in managing daily responsibilities despite her ex-husband’s inconsistent child support payments, but an unexpected car repair expense this school year has left her struggling to cope.
Shantel, a new teacher in the district, felt isolated from her peers, , observing the strong bonds among her colleagues and sometimes felt like the odd one out. She frequently had questions during professional development sessions but was hesitant to ask.
Jocelyn, a new believer in Christ, yearned for a close relationship with her father, but growing up, he seemed to prioritize work over her mother and herself. Unfortunately, her father’s emotional distance persisted, and he passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack, leaving their unresolved issues unaddressed.
God Turned the Tables
Megan met a nice senior lady at church that took a liking to she and the children named Sarah. The kind woman gave Megan a call a week before back to school in blessing Megan and the kids with a token of love that covered all the children’s back to school items, plus giving some household items for Megan that are helpful for around the home.
Shantel found a teacher veteran at her new school after a chance meeting in the lounge who took her under their wings in becoming a trusted colleague and mentor who showed her the ropes in navigating her new school environment, and who patiently worked with her in various endeavors that never turned away from her questions in seeing Shantel wanting to learn and grow as a better teacher.
Jocelyn continues to grow in her relationship with Christ in studying the Bible and building her prayer life. Through attending service regularly and joining a small group she felt more supported in her life’s journey in understanding the never wavering love of Christ as her Heavenly Father, and she had established a supportive community at church.
Breaking Survivor Mode
I strongly identify with the stories shared above, having to navigate survival mode as a lifestyle in not having a traditional support system, inconsistencies in growing up, and enduring the pain of rejection in some settings. I became overly independent thinking I had to go life alone feeling like I could only depend on me. However, the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who came in human form in feeling our pain, reminds us that we do not have to face life’s difficulties alone. Many of us have developed a survivor mentality, feeling the need to go it alone due to past disappointments. Nevertheless, just as God supported biblical figures like Moses, Esther, Mary, and Joseph, He can provide similar support to us, offering provisions, timely interventions, and the presence of godly individuals who reflect His love for us.God’s love and guidance are consistently accessible to us. I can attest to many ways God made a way for my family and I during trying circumstances. There are also godly people in my life that I can attest that were heaven sent in being a blessing at the right season in my life. When confronted with feelings of despair, parenting challenges, or isolation, we can draw nearer to Christ through prayer, study, and supplication to walk in his love for us. Also may some of us discover our community of fellow believers with individuals that purposefully apply His love daily in offering friendship and connection. Let’s be empowered as we navigate life’s obstacles with courage, faith, and the assurance that we are never alone.
Purpose Filled Mommy with Minimarie 