Stepmom Prayers

Never did I ever imagine that one day I would be a stepmom. When I was little, I thought all stepmoms were evil and slave driving, much like Cinderella’s stepmom. Even more unmentionable attributes were given to them in my imagination whenever anyone mentioned the word “stepmom” to me. Now… crazy enough, I AM a stepmom!! I have been for a few years, and I would never want anyone to attribute the same characteristics to me that I once did to stepmoms! It can be a really hard job, and I want to let other stepmoms out there know that I feel you.

Perspective

I do have an advantage in this blended family arena. Being both a biological mother to two kids, and a step mother to four kids, I have the opportunity to see both sides of the coin. This is helpful because my own bio children have a stepmom because their dad remarried. She loves them, helps out when needed, and I am so thankful for that. Knowing what life is like on both ends, helps me in the day to days with all the family dynamics.

I see now all the actual attributes that stepmoms have to emanate. Patience, grace, mercy, empathy, kindness, sacrifice, and helpfulness are just a few describing words that I now realize stepmoms have to embrace. Now, I will say there are times that I feel pretty successful in these areas on the stepmom side, but also times when I feel like I missed the mark entirely.

That’s why I turn to God through scripture and prayer, and also a very helpful resource for blended families called Family Life Blended. Family Life Blended, and especially their podcast, has helped me tremendously. There’s a ton of great information from those who have lived the blended family lifestyle for a long time. If you are in a blended family, or know someone who is, it would definitely be worth your while to check out their website or their podcasts. They can really open up your eyes and your heart to what everyone in the family is dealing with.

Verses to Remember

Scripture and prayer have also proved very helpful for me. I have seen a change in my heart, which has led to a change in my actions, which has led to a change in my step-kids’ actions as well. Here are a few verses to keep close in case you are a stepmom or know a stepmom that may need prayer.

“But he gives us more grace. That is why scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” James 4:6 (NIV)

Humbling myself definitely is hard, but there was a time I apologized to my two step-daughters for having an uninviting attitude around them. I knew they could feel my tension because one mentioned my mood to her dad. It actually took a lot of courage to approach them to apologize, but their grace and acceptance about it and afterward took a huge weight off my shoulders.

“…because judgement without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgement.” James 2:13 (NIV)

Even when the toys and supplies, papers and trash, shoes and socks are left around the house I have to remember that there are times when I also leave things in spots they don’t belong. Just as when my own kiddos leave things and I pick them up for them, I show love to my step-kids by doing the same.

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12 (NIV)

There are really tough days sometimes. Probably, well not at all like the afflictions early Christians faced, but definitely hard days. Remembering that God has a plan for me in this position and adding a quick prayer (“Help me Lord!”) is always helpful.

“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians 5: 1-2 (NIV)

Prayer

Dearest Heavenly Father, Thank you for all that you have blessed me with, including these bonus children you have placed in my life. I ask for your forgiveness for times that I may not have shown your love, mercy, and grace towards them. Please soften my heart, and help me to see things from their point of view. I thank you for moulding me, and growing me through these good days and hard days, letting your light shine brightly through me. I love you, and in Jesus’ precious name I pray… Amen.

I hope this has helped you today!