Commentary by Rev. Michael VandenBerg
This past weekend, most of us were swamped by the heavy rains on Saturday night/Sunday morning. For my neighbors and I, we awoke to find that the pond that we live on was flooded, almost four feet higher than usual. This meant that many of us lost furniture, boats, gardens, docks, etc. as the water rose and became a torrent.
What do you do when life sends you storms? Well it probably depends on how prepared you are for the inevitable surprises of life. If you have made preparations and anticipate the coming storms, then you will not fear them but will be ready. If on the other hand you simply wait for whatever life sends your way, you will find yourself unprepared and little ready to deal with the brewing storms.
The writer of Psalms says, “The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a place of safety in times of trouble. 10 Those who know you, Lord, will trust you; you do not abandon anyone who comes to you.” The storms of life take preparation. Whether it is a financial crisis that on average occur once every eight-10 years, a health crisis, marital problems, family crisis, the loss of a home or job or friends, you can be ready with the right kind of planning.
In the Financial Peace class that I teach, we learn that the average American has an average of $25,000 saved for retirement, while the average cost of retirement is equal to about 70 percent of pre-retirement income. With the average income being $50,000 and the expected years in retirement being 18, that comes out to $630,000 or $605,000 short.
Are you planning for your financial future? Are you planning for your spiritual future? Are you planning for your family future? All are needed if you are to live a healthy, happy life and not be afraid of the inevitable storms of life.
When I was young I was an Eagle Scout, learning how to become prepared for any situation. The lessons I learned back then have served me well. Many believe there is nothing you can do to prepare for the future, but they are wrong, If you want to learn more about how to be prepared for the future, then make an appointment, go and see a local pastor. We might just have some answers.
