Episode Summary: In this episode, we explore the powerful theme of fear from a biblical perspective, specifically tailored for the unique challenges faced by single mothers. Drawing from the first day of the devotional, "Courage to Believe: 21 Day Devotional for Single Moms," we discuss how fear can impact our decisions and how to find peace by trusting in God’s promises.

1. Acknowledge Your Emotions: Recognizing and naming specific fears (scarcity, rejection, loss) can help you manage your response and create healthy distance from the emotion.
2. Trust vs. Control: Relying on our own strength alone can lead to compromising our values; trusting God means waiting on His timing and provision.
3. The Power of Scriptural Affirmation: Regularly speaking God's promises, such as Isaiah 41:10, can transform your mindset from one of fear to one of peace and strength.
4. God as Your Comforter: Just as a parent comforts a child, God provides real assurance and strength, even when our circumstances feel overwhelming.

0:00 - Introduction to the Solo Mom Journey

A warm welcome to the Solo Moms community. We acknowledge the overwhelming nature of fear and introduce the purpose of today's devotional: finding courage in the midst of life's messiest emotions.

1:55 - Today's Bible Verse: Isaiah 41:10

A focused reading of Isaiah 41:10, highlighting God’s promise to be with us, strengthen us, and uphold us with His righteous right hand.

2:18 - Illustration: Fear’s Impact on Our Choices

My personal reflection on how fear—specifically the fear of being unable to provide—can lead to making compromises we wouldn't otherwise choose. We explore the transition from self-reliance to trusting God.

3:40 - Biblical Application: God’s Assurance

Understanding why God tells us "do not be afraid." We discuss God’s unique ability to see what's ahead and provide real assurance that humans alone cannot offer.

4:36 - Life Application: Managing Real Emotions

A practical look at how to identify and name the specific fears we face daily. This section emphasizes that while our fears may not always be based on reality, our feelings are always real and deserve to be addressed through prayer and patience.

6:14 - Self-Reflection Questions

1. What fear weighs heaviest on me today?
2. Which promise from Isaiah 41:10 speaks most to my current situation?

6:44 - Closing Prayer

A heartfelt prayer for forgiveness for moments of doubt and a request for the strength to live life fully resting on God's promises.

7:14 - Recommended Reading & Daily Affirmations

1. Reading List: Psalm 56:3, 2 Timothy 1:7, Deuteronomy 31:6, Psalm 34:4, and Joshua 1:9.
2. Today's Affirmations: "I am not afraid; God is with me. His strength gives me courage".

1. Get the Full Devotional:...

In this deeply personal episode, I open up about a 3 AM realization that brought three haunting words to the surface: "So much blood." I share the heartbreaking story of losing my first son, Andre, at 22 weeks, and how that trauma connects to the biblical account of the woman with the issue of blood.

Listen as I introduces my new short story, Healing Hem: The Minine Miller Story.

Whether you are suffering from the loss of a child, a chronic illness, or a situation that seems hopeless, this episode is a reminder that you have an anchor. God sees your pain, and you are never beyond the reach of the Healer.

Mentioned:

1. Book: Healing Hem: The Minine Miller Story. Buy on Amazon.
2. Resource: Free download for single moms. Get yours now.

Join our Facebook devotional group or our Solo Mom Connect group.

https://solomomstalk.mysites.io/podcast-2-copy/so-much-blood-finding-healing-after-loss-intro-to-healing-hem

This podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.

Shame has a way of whispering lies that make us believe we're failing our children. As single moms, we carry burdens that feel too heavy. We wonder if we're enough, if our kids deserve better, or if other families are silently judging our choices.

While working on the audiobook version of my Courage to Believe Christian Devotional, Day 7 struck me in a profound way. It addresses that crushing weight of shame we often bear as solo parents, and I knew I had to share this powerful message with you.

In this episode, I share Eva's story. A mom who found herself avoiding other parents just to escape the feeling of being judged. Her experience reveals how shame thrives in isolation, convincing us that we're alone in our struggles. Whether it's the sting of a failed marriage, the pressure of not measuring up at work, or that quiet voice telling us we're not enough, shame tries to define our worth.

Eva's story resonates with so many of us because it captures those painful moments when we can't afford the perfect birthday gift, when we see complete families at school events, when we convince ourselves our children deserve a life we can't provide.

But here's what I want you to understand: God doesn't see the labels the world tries to put on us, and He doesn't agree with them. The core message of day seven reveals how God offers an unexpected surprise by wiping our slate clean.

This episode gives you a sneak peek into the audiobook experience, specifically focusing on how we can address the root cause of shame instead of letting it continue to burden us.

1. Recognition of how shame operates in isolation and affects our daily interactions

2. Understanding that your struggles as a single mom are not unique. You're not alone

3. Insight into God's perspective on your worth beyond worldly labels

4. Hope for breaking free from the cycle of shame and self-doubt

5. A glimpse into the transformative message of the full 21-day devotional

If Eva's story resonates with you, this episode offers the first step in reclaiming your light so your children can see it shine. Remember, you are not defined by your circumstances. You are seen, valued, and loved exactly as you are.

Check out our Facebook group.

https://solomomstalk.mysites.io/podcast-2-copy/why-shame-keeps-single-moms-hiding-and-how-god-changes-everything

This podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.