Devotional: Devine Courage for an Ausome Adventure

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.

Joshua 1:9

One of the scariest events in neurodivergent parenthood is learning of your child’s official diagnosis. Whether you had an inkling of what may be wrong, or the diagnosis came as a surprise; it is a striking blow. Worry may assume control of your thoughts… What quality of life will my child have? Will they ever get married and live a “normal” life? Is there anything I could have done differently? What do I do now? Why my kid? Worrying is second nature for us as humans, but it must take a backseat to our faith, even when it comes to our children. ESPECIALLY when it comes to our children. The most important thing to note is that God is in control.

God formed your little one in the womb and knew all there was to know about them before they were born (Jeremiah 1:5). I find comfort in this verse because that means it is not by chance, nor mistake that God created any of us the way we are. This verse also makes me feel honored because God has entrusted me to care for one of the purest souls to grace the earth. Find comfort in knowing that the Lord sees something so beautiful in us that he would grant us stewardship of such beautiful souls. The journey of an ausome parent (or any parent for that matter) is not an easy one. We will be faced with uncertainty, hardships, stress, and, yes, even worry. However, if we anchor ourselves in the Lord, we receive his divine wisdom, invigorating grace, unfathomable peace, and undaunted courage.

Pray this prayer aloud:

• Lord, we give you thanks even now. Though we have man’s diagnosis we still confirm in our hearts what You say about (your child’s name here) in your word.  He is fearfully and wonderfully made. You stitched him together in His mother’s womb and You don’t make mistakes. You have said that he is anointed and worthy of love and is victorious, blessed and favored.  We choose today to understand the facts, but to believe and declare Your Holy word over ____’s life.  May he grow to be a man like David, who seeks after Your own heart, have the wisdom of Solomon, the faith of Abraham, and walk with Jesus all his life, Father. In the amazing name of Jesus we proclaim victory over the life of ______. Blessed be the God of our hope.  Amen!

Prayer by Michelle Clay