Foster the Family: Encouragement, Hope, and Practical Help for the Christian Foster Parent

by Jamie C. Finn

Overview

There are great rewards that come along with being a foster parent, yet there are also great challenges that can leave you feeling depleted, alone, and discouraged. The many burdens of a foster parent's day—hurting children, struggling biological parents, and a broken system—are only compounded by the many burdens of a foster parent's heart—confusion, anxiety, heartache, anger, and fear.

With the compassion and insight of a fellow foster parent, Jamie C. Finn helps you see your struggles through the lens of the gospel, bringing biblical truths to bear on your unique everyday realities. In these short, easy-to-read chapters, you'll find honest, personal stories and practical lessons that provide encouragement and direction from God's Word as you walk the journey of foster parenting.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781540901866
Publisher:	Baker Publishing Group
Publication date:	02/15/2022
Pages:	240
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.40(h) x 0.40(d)

About the Author

Jamie C. Finn is the executive director of Foster the Family, the host of the Real Mom podcast, the founder and owner of Goods and Better, and a sought-after speaker for retreats, conferences, and events for foster and adoptive parents. Her popular social media accounts offer a glimpse into the real life of a foster parent and provide encouragement to thousands of foster parents. Jamie is the mother to 6+ children through foster care, adoption, and birth. She lives in Sicklerville, New Jersey, with her husband, Alan.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments 13

Welcome to My Life 17

Introduction 27

1 What Did I Do to My Life? 31

2 Jesus Loves the Little Children (and Their Families) 40

3 Do Not Be Afraid (When Everything Is Scary) 46

4 I Don't Even Know How to Pray Anymore 54

5 Out of Control 64

6 Too Attached 74

7 My Foster Child's Family Is My Enemy 87

8 God Is in the Wait 96

9 I Thought My Love Would Be Enough 106

10 What Do You Have That You Did Not Receive? 120

11 But What about My Kids? 128

12 I Don't Want to Hand Her Over Today 140

13 Self-Care Isn't Selfish 149

14 Social Workers and Therapists and Lawyers-Oh My! 162

15 Foster-Caring Community 175

16 A Small-Time County Judge 188

17 Foster Care Is Heartbreak 196

18 Spectator Signs for the Race 210

Epilogue: What I Know 221

Appendix: Resources for the Trauma-Informed Parent 225

Notes 227