God Is Able

God Is Able

The LORD says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life.

Psalm 32:8

I’ve never seen a more beautiful picture of God’s care for us than a father or mother caring for a disabled child, or a brother or sister showing gentleness toward a sibling with special needs. God is always there to guide and protect us, and sometimes He calls us to guide, protect, and watch over others.

Every culture and group has members with disabilities. How do the Amish care for the disabled among them? Just as members of other cultures do, the Amish learn the needs of the disabled in their community and do their part to help. If someone can’t walk, they make a ramp for his wheelchair. If someone can’t hear, they write out the church messages for her. The needs of a family with a new baby who has medical problems are no different from a family’s need for a new barn or for help with a harvest.

Being hard workers is a worthy pursuit for the Amish, and disabled children are expected to participate as members of the family, to the extent they are able. Chores are doled out, and each person does his part—even blind children are taught to garden or cook. Adults with special needs have their own shops or create items to sell. Their part in the community is embraced like everyone else’s.

The Amish believe that disabilities are part of God’s plan. They feel God’s will is revealed as people love and care for others. This reminds me of when Jesus was asked the reason for a man’s blindness: “‘It was not because of his sins or his parents’ sins,’ Jesus answered. ‘This happened so the power of God could be seen in him’” (John 9:3).

God is always there for you when you turn to Him. And He just might use you to be the one that another can count on.

Dear heavenly Father, I thank You for those whom this world labels “disabled” but who are able to bring glory to You through the abilities they do have and through our ability to serve them.