Judgment Is My Motivation

Written By: Lisa Crump

Being a single mother in this day in age, comes with a lot more stress than just raising a child. In the midst of raising our children alone, I’m certain that the majority of us have had the pleasure of encountering a negative opinion, or two, here and there. These opinions and feedback have a tendency to come from individuals who “think” they know you, but truly don’t know your story. Negative feedback can even come from the mouths of those who are closest to you that have chosen to make you the object of ridicule. Either way, I know from experience that all of the prejudgments and stereotypes can be a little disheartening and can play a major part in lowering self-esteem and damaging self-worth. As we progress deeper into the New Year, working on methods to bind negativity and developing a stronger sense of self-worth should definitely be on the agenda as a single parent growing in Christ.

Be sure to always diligently seek security within yourself through God. The past is the past, meaning it’s over and you have been forgiven. Never let anyone take away the sense of security that you have found in God, or allow negativity to affect your mindset just because you are a single parent. Forgive negative individuals and move on. Job 23:10 states, “But he knows where I am going. And when he tests me, I will come out as pure as gold.” When you begin to manifest your dreams while planting yourself firmly in a spiritual mindset, you will notice that the negative commentary from the naysayers will quiet down. You will be so focused on pursuing goals and letting God’s word shine through you, that the ridicule that you do come into contact with, will instantly be transformed into motivation. People will start to wonder in amazement, “How does she do it?” Or, “Where does her help come from?”

Never be afraid to seek help and wise counsel. Although we may feel that sometimes the pressures and ridicule of running a household by ourselves are getting the best of us, God has already strategically placed people in our path to assist us with pressing through those difficult moments. I know as single parents, it becomes a task to find someone to truly confide in about the various ups and downs that we encounter. You feel like no one can possibly understand what you are actually going through. I urge you to seek out support groups within the church, fellowship and touch and agree with women in your workplace, school, or congregation that may be dealing with the same issues.

Banish naysayers and negativity from every aspect of your life, and surround yourself with positive thinkers and motivated individuals. Negativity can come from so called friends, loved ones, or even family members. Whoever is polluting your mind with ridicule and ungodliness, I encourage you to cut them off completely. We have all sinned and come short of God’s word. Therefore, constant judgment and put downs that relate to your circumstances are not something that you have to tolerate, regardless of whom they are coming from.