Watching a life with promise spiral out of control to addiction is painful for every single parent. As we look at our child’s particular situation, it is easy to project into their future our own sense of frustration and helplessness over their downward spiral. It gets to that point where we start to see so little promise in their future if we somehow don’t do something about it now. Otherwise who knows where they could end up?
I call this behavior “futurecasting.” Futurecasting is when we project our known fears to predict some form of unknown future reality or outcome. None of us know what the future holds for us or our loved ones. And, none of us knows exactly how or when our children’s addiction journey will end or turn out.
I used to catch myself looking at my son’s life and his chaotic journey and wonder, how can anyone find hope in this mess? It wasn’t until I reflected on this verse in Jeremiah did I realize that with God at work, there is never a reason to lose hope.
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV)
We don’t know the future for our children’s lives. Despite our strongest beliefs and fears about what we know to be possible, we are not futurecasters. God knows what he is doing and has demonstrated time and again the consistency of his promises.
Next time you find yourself thinking you know there is a dark future in store for your child, remember that God has thoughts of peace and hope in their future. He holds the same powerful thoughts for you, as well. Make decisions and take actions that are based on sound thinking, instead of fearful futurecasting. Embrace this approach, internalize God’s truth and his promise, I am certain it will help.
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Is your child addicted to drugs or alcohol? Are you trapped on the emotional rollercoaster of addiction? Dave Cooke can help. He’s an internationally recognized speaker who has made it his commitment to minister to parents struggling with addiction in their families. Let him share with you how to create an action plan that will move you, your family, and your addicted child in a healthier direction. Contact Dave today to book him to speak at your church, parent’s group, business organization, or neighborhood association. Go to https://www.100pedals.com/speaker-dave-cooke/ for more information or email dave@100Pedals.com.
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