Facing a new situation, with all of its unknowns is one of life’s tough or difficult challenges, in my estimation. I am thinking specifically of the new situation of helping my parents as they cope with failing health in their old age. My dad has been experiencing some small strokes, and is evidencing some loss of ability. This is particularly worrisome because he is extremely loathe to relinquish the privilege of driving a vehicle. Arrangements will probably need to be made soon for an assisted living situation for my parents. They will need to maintain as much independence and responsibility as they can manage, and yet have ready assistance with transportation, meal preparation, housecleaning, etc. if that becomes necessary. So, I will need to become informed about these matters, as well as help them figure out the finances of any change in their living situation. As I contemplate how very busy I am going to be, doing things that are not familiar to me, I feel a little tightening of anxiety around my heart. There are some Bible verses which I am finding to be a comfort at this time:
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. . . that ye may know the way by which ye must go: for ye have not passed this way heretofore. Joshua 3:4b
I take this to mean that, in this unfamiliar circumstance, I must go to the Lord for wisdom to know “the way by which” I must go. This is an opportunity to depend upon God for guidance, strength and wisdom.
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Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. Psalm 37:5
This is another encouragement to trust the Lord in this situation, rather than trying to figure everything out ahead of time, by my own “wisdom”. It is never the right time to give in to anxious worry, to “What ifs . . .”
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Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. Matthew 6:34
Little by little I can learn how to help my parents meet the challenges of old age. The Lord will give me what I need, when I need it, if I depend upon Him for those needs.
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I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8
I hope to encourage my parents to truly examine their hearts as to their relationship to the Lord, that they may not be consumed with worry as death approaches. Rather, I hope they may learn to take each day as a gift from Him, and not worry about the limitations, uncertainties and trials that old age will bring.
Thanks for your post, Mom. 🙂 I found it insightful and edifying. I respect you for how well you are honoring your parents in their time of need. Inspite of all the needs of your own family, you are ready and willing to extend your energy to your parents.
Sounds like tough times, Mama. You always have been good with figuring out new ways to work with the system as far as health goes–thinking particularly of the ordeal with Dubie. Great scripture applications!
I have been thinking of the same verses with all of my hormone changes with this pregnancy and my digestion upset.
Sometimes I dream that I’m back home going shopping with you and having food fixed for me!!
Thank you, Sarah and Laura, for your comments. I am so thankful that the Lord is the One who brings these challenges into the lives of His children, and He is the One also Who will give the wisdom and strength to honor Him in challenging circumstances. May the Lord bless you both as you confront your own challenges and trials.
Love, Mom