Strength is a beautiful, important attribute. It allows us to push through on our hard days, overcome obstacles and come out on the other side better than we were. Everyone experiences bouts of strength, but learning how to harness it goes a long way. Just as this is such an important attribute for parents, foster parents find their power and strength in God to carry them through troubling times.
If you find yourself in need of strength, pray. James 4:8 tells us “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” We must remember that the Lord is right there with us, and has all the tools we need to succeed. God would never put you in a situation that you could not handle. He may challenge you, but he will always give you protection, wisdom, and strength when you ask for it.
Isaiah 40:31- “But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Do not forget to pray. As foster parents, you may feel busy running around picking up children, going to appointments and running a household that you forget to stop, breathe and pray. Regular prayer develops an intimate relationship with the LORD, renewing your hope and strength to battle everyday life.
2 Corinthians 12:9-10- “But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” Understand that you cannot do things alone. Instead of being shameful or discouraged by your weaknesses, instead, let the almighty power of God shine- for he can do all that we cannot. He is all-knowing and all-powerful. Because of his greatness, we can be accepting of our flaws.