Planning for the Future

"Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.’ Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow."(James 4:13-14)

One topic that consumes many parents of children with severe disabilities is the future care for their children.  For families of children who will need life-long care, the cost of that care beyond the parents’ lifespan is well into the millions.  Needless to say, the need to save and plan for our child’s future is always a thought tucked in the back of our minds.  Though my husband and I try to plan and forge a trajectory for our family’s future, we are also acutely aware that we are not completely in control. What we do know for certain is that if it is God’s will, we will be able to make future provisions for our son. 

So, what are parents to do if we do not know what will happen tomorrow?  We pray; we seek God’s will; and, we plan accordingly.  For instance, I know that if I do not begin focusing on my career outside the home, we will never meet our financial goals for our son’s future.  The uncertainty is that when I think I should reenter corporate America is not necessarily consistent with God’s plan for my family.  The key is to stay completely focused on God in prayer and scripture and to not become discouraged.  Isaiah 40:31 states: “but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength”.  I have learned to keep my focus on God and not grow weary of the search process in knowing that God does have a plan beyond what my eyes can see. 

I have an all-time favorite sermon on cassette tape (yes, I said cassette tape) titled “He’s an On Time God”.  In uncertain times when God doesn’t seem to be bringing that job or that raise or that help you think you need in that moment, remember that God is always on time.  So as you try to make a plan for your child’s future, know that God will answer your prayers according to His plan for your family.  He is never late, but He’s always right on time.  You can count on it. 

Lord, help me to keep my eyes focused on you and your solutions to what I view as immediate needs.  Renew my strength, Lord, as I wait for your perfect timing in knowing that your best is so much greater than that for which I have planned.