How to Trust God When Your Child Is Struggling

Watching your child struggle is one of the hardest things you’ll ever face.

It doesn’t matter if they’re three or thirty. When they hurt, you hurt.

And yes, we say “I trust God.”

But when the diagnosis hits. When the anxiety won’t let go. When prayers feel unanswered...

Trusting Him feels almost impossible.

So what then?

How do you hold on when you can’t see the way forward?

Let’s talk about it.

1. You Don’t Have to Hold It Together

Faith isn’t about pretending.

Jesus wept. Paul despaired. David cried out.

God isn’t looking for your perfection. He wants your honesty.

Bring Him the shaking hands, the 3 a.m. tears, the questions you’re afraid to say out loud.

That’s real trust.

2. God Loves Your Child Even More Than You Do

It’s hard to fathom, but true.

Your love is fierce. His is even greater.

More patient. More perfect. More eternal.

He’s not pacing the floor in worry. He’s present. He sees the entire story, not just this painful moment.

Isaiah 40:11 says He gently leads parents with young. He’s walking this road with you.

3. Surrender Isn’t a One-Time Decision

You don’t just trust God once and you’re done.

You’ll do it again and again. Every time fear creeps in.

Trust might look like:

• Letting go of your plan for how it should go

• Giving them space to wrestle while you pray behind the scenes

• Releasing the need to fix what only God can heal

It’s not easy. But it’s holy.

4. Prayer Isn’t Your Last Resort. It’s Your Greatest Weapon.

You’re not powerless.

Your prayers shake heaven.

When you lift your child to God, you’re doing the most powerful thing a parent can do.

Even if it’s messy. Even if it’s just “Jesus, help.”

Pray. Keep praying. Don’t stop.

5. Trust the Author of This Story

Even this, yes, even this, can be used for good.

God isn’t wasting the struggle. He’s shaping you. He’s working in your child’s life.

Romans 8:28 isn’t a cliché. It’s a promise.

You may not see it yet. But you can trust Him anyway.

📖 5 Verses to Anchor Your Heart

Speak them. Post them. Hold them close.

• Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not fear, for I am with you...”

• Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted...”

• Lamentations 3:22–23 – “His mercies are new every morning...”

• Romans 8:28 – “In all things God works for the good...”

• James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God...”

🙏 A Prayer for the Parent Who Feels Powerless

Father, You see my child. You know every detail of their struggle.

And You know the burden I carry.

I lay them at Your feet.

Help me release control and trust that You’re working, even when I can’t see it.

Give me peace when I feel powerless.

Give me wisdom when I don’t know what to do.

And remind me You love them even more than I do.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Free Gift to Help You Hold On

Need daily reminders of hope?

Grab my free printable prayer and scripture cards.

Stick them on your mirror, fridge, or dashboard; so truth is front and center, even on the hardest days.

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