MAY 22, Romans 8:28

Alex never forgot the day his new baby sister, Allison, came home from the hospital. Father and Mother had told him that her spinal cord was damaged before she was born, and she would never be able to walk. Alex couldn’t quite believe it. Maybe if we all take real good care of Allison, her legs will become well, he thought.

When Alex mentioned this to Mother, she shook her head sadly. “No, the doctor said that unless God performs a miracle, her legs will never work,” she said gently. “We don’t understand why God has allowed this to happen, but we need to accept the fact that it’s part of His plan for Allison and our family. We need to trust Him because He knows what’s best.”

Mother put down the potato peeler, wiped her hands on her apron, and sat down next to Alex at the table. “Allison is going to need special care because her legs have no feeling,” she said. “She won’t know whether they’re hot or cold, or whether they have been cut or bruised.”

“No feeling at all?” Alex blurted out. “She could really hurt herself, and not even know it!” Mother nodded. “That’s where you and I fit into God’s plan for her,” she said. “It’s going to take time and love to protect her from getting hurt, and to help her learn about her handicap as she grows up.”

“Oh,” murmured Alex thoughtfully.
“Will you be part of God’s plan for our family by helping us care for Allison?” asked Mother. Alex was quiet for a long time before answering. “I’m still going to pray that Allison will walk someday,” he said finally, “but whether she walks or not, I want to help her as much as I can.”

“Great!” said Mother. “God knew Allison would need a big brother like you. Remember, God’s plan is always the best.”

Thought: Do you have a brother or sister who is handicapped or disadvantaged in any way? God has placed that person in your family as part of His plan for you. Or perhaps someone in church or school needs special attention and constant care. As you show love and encouragement, God is using you to be a blessing. It will help both of you to grow in Him. Or perhaps you have a handicap yourself. You may not realise it, but God wants to use you, too–to be a blessing to other members of your family. Cheerfully accept God’s plan for you.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to believe and trust that Your will and plan in my life is always perfect. This I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.