The Single Mom Journeyნიმუში

Day 3: Depression

When I was growing up, divorce was rare. Most homes had a husband and wife working together to raise their family. That wasn’t my experience. I was doing everything on my own, and it was often overwhelming. Honestly, it was depressing.

Depression is one of the biggest struggles many single moms face. We don’t have that partner to walk beside us in the parenting journey. I was dealing with the deep pain of rejection after losing a husband I truly loved. I tried to stay strong for my children, to hide the hurt, but inside, I was lonely and constantly overwhelmed.

There were days when the depression made it hard just to function. I did what I had to for my children, but anything beyond that was a struggle. I kept asking myself, Why did this happen to me?

About a month after he left, we had to move out of our home and into my parents’ house because we couldn’t afford to stay. I had to work more hours and figure out childcare, all while trying to keep life stable for my kids. It felt like I was in a deep, dark hole with no way out.

But there was hope.

One of the ways I began to overcome depression was by staying close to God. I continued to take my children to church, and I worked on building my personal relationship with the Lord.

Just one week after my husband left, I went to a ladies' Bible study. During the meeting, my cousin shared my situation, and the women began to pray for me. That moment reminded me that I wasn’t alone. Later, my pastor’s mother approached me and handed me some money, saying, “God told me to give this to you.” That simple act brought tears to my eyes and reminded me that God sees and cares.

Not long after, I met with my pastor for counseling. He taught me a truth that I’ve held onto ever since: God’s grace is enough. He shared 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NKJV) with me: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”

From that day forward, every time my pastor saw me, he’d say, “God’s grace,” or “Remember God’s grace.” And I did. I believed it then—and I believe it now.

Friend, this promise is for you, too. No matter how deep your discouragement feels, God’s grace is enough to carry you through. You can overcome the battle with depression, not in your own strength, but by leaning on the One who promises to never leave you.

You are not alone. You are not forgotten. And you are stronger than you think—because God’s grace is enough.

Day 3: Challenge

Depression.

What thoughts come to your mind when you read that word?

Maybe you thought, “That’s my life,” or “I know someone going through that,” or even, “I feel that way sometimes.” You’re not alone—so many of us can relate to those feelings. Depression is real, and it’s hard.

Did you know that in the United States, about 15 million people experience depression each year—and the majority of them are women? Sadly, nearly two-thirds of them never get the help they need.¹

So what exactly does the world say about depression?

Here’s how the Mayo Clinic defines it:

“More than just a bout of the blues, depression isn't a weakness, nor is it something that you can simply ‘snap out’ of. Depression is a chronic illness that usually requires long-term treatment, like diabetes or high blood pressure. But don't get discouraged. Most people with depression feel better with medication, psychological counseling, or other treatment.”*²

That’s powerful. Depression is serious—and it’s not something to be ashamed of. This book isn’t a replacement for medical treatment or professional counseling, and if you’re in a place where you need either of those, please don’t hesitate to seek that help. God has given us many tools, and medical help is one of them.

But this book is about the “other treatment” mentioned in that quote—the spiritual help that so many people overlook.

The Bible offers a different kind of hope—one that goes beyond prescriptions and therapy sessions. It’s the hope of God’s grace.

In 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NKJV), God says: “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”

That means even in your weakest, darkest moments, God’s strength can carry you. When you feel like you can’t go on, His grace will sustain you. When depression feels like a heavy fog, His presence brings light.

So the next time you're feeling overwhelmed by depression, don’t give up. Instead, run to the Lord. His grace is real. His strength is perfect. And He promises to walk with you every step of the way.

God’s grace can guide you, strengthen you, encourage you, direct you, comfort you, and bring lasting peace into your life.

Day 3: Action

Write an encouraging letter to yourself. That is right, write a letter to yourself filled with encouragement for the next time you are feeling depressed. In this letter, include Scripture, testimonies of when God’s grace appeared, encouraging songs, etc. When depression arises in your life, pull out this letter and read it out loud, reminding yourself of God’s blessings, comfort, strength, and other important attributes of His blessed grace.