My last blog post covered the first 3 items on my list of truth statements for parents who are in pain. Their pain is the result of the behaviors, choices and struggles of their teen to adult kids. I turn to this list when hopelessness and weariness overwhelm me.

I’ve felt that way many times as the mom of an alcoholic/addict who’s also struggled with mental health issues, self-injury and suicidal thoughts. This roller-coaster ride has lasted over 10 years. At times I lost my way – and my identity. I questioned my faith and tortured myself wondering where did we go wrong? how did this happen? why did it happen? how will things end? will it ever really end?

One day it dawned on me that my thinking needed to be re-framed. A set of truths to focus my mind on the next time the proverbial rug was pulled out from under my feet was essential to my well-being.

Worn down by the constant strain I asked God for clarity to see my situation through His lenses. Of course it’s impossible to do that completely. He’s divine. I’m mortal, BUT these are the next 4 truth statements He led me to put on my list. They’ve been a huge help on the journey. I hope they encourage you as much as they have me: 

4)  God loves my child even more than I do, therefore I can be assured He’ll do whatever it takes to try to reach them. He’ll never quit.

“God loved the people of this world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who has faith in him will have eternal life and never really die (John 3:16).” CEV  

5)  God is able. He can do the impossible. Nothing is too hard for him. Nothing.

Jesus looked at them and said, “With man it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God (Mark 10:27).”  ESV

6)  I still need to express gratitude. It’s not easy, but God will help me as I begin to take baby steps. He wants me to be thankful in all things, even in this – as crazy as it sounds.

“Thank God in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will] (I Thessalonians 5:18).”  AMP

“. . . it’s the way God wants . . . you to live (MSG).”

7)  I can trust God in everything. Everything includes the life of my child.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on [lean on, ESV; rely on, AMP]  your own understanding [or insight, AMP] (Proverbs 3:5).” 

God of heaven, Lord of our hearts, we need You. Please use these words of truth to remind us of Your deep, deep love for our child; that You’re able to do the impossible to save them from destruction; that we need to cultivate gratitude, and that You really are completely trustworthy. 

In the name of our Savior Jesus.

Amen.

*Last week I encouraged you to begin making your own list. Truth statements you can stand on when everything’s falling apart. Have you started yet? If not, why not find a quiet place and begin right now?  I’d love to hear what’s on your list. Please share a few of yours in the comments box. You might encourage some one else if you do!