Beyond Measure Devotional Sample

Step-by-Step

How many times have we, parents of EXTRAordinary children, been at our wits’ end and unable to fathom traveling this road any longer? We probably have never said the words out loud, because what kind of parents would we be if we admitted our lack of faith, strength, or perseverance? The answer is an honest one.

Even with the best support system, looking down the long-term road for our special children can be overwhelming. How in the world can I do this for the rest of my life, or, scarier yet, for the rest of her life? Will I outlive my child? These are the questions that make it hard to breathe.

In an effort to catch our breath on this long journey, let’s look from another perspective. After about 15 miles, when their bodies start giving out, marathon runners will often take their gaze off of the 11 miles remaining and instead focus on the next three steps. We can learn from this model while on the journey with our special children as well. Instead of standing on our toes trying to see the end of this hard road, let’s focus together on the next three steps.

“The difficult road is managed by a continued determination to take the next step.”- TyiaLynn Scott

Dig Deeper

When we trust God in the long term, it is much easier to take the next three steps. (If you need help mustering the strength to take even the next step, God can do that too!)

What attributes of God will help build your perseverance and dependence on him? To get you started, below are a few examples:

God is all-powerful. (Jeremiah 32:17)

God is faithful. (Hebrews 10:23)

Prayer

Lord God, this road is hard. So hard. There are days when I don’t feel like I can take even one more step, much less three. Help me today to take my focus off the struggle and instead place it on your truth. Your goodness. Your promises. Thank you for your strength that will get me through this day. In the precious name of Jesus. Amen.