| Jeremiah 10:23 – “I know, O Lord, that a man’s way is not in himself, Nor is it in a man who walks to direct his steps.” |
We recently had our annual meeting with our investment counselor. I received forms to complete pre-visit. One was a risk assessment. We do them periodically to make sure we are getting into things that match the thickness of our skin. The other a budget, one for now (pre-retirement) and one for after retirement. We also kind of needed to pick a retirement date (that we are aiming for). That part was hard.
Sadly, a co-worker of mine died recently. I was curious as to what I would receive from my retirement plan if I died before retirement. I found out that my wife would receive the cash value of my plan, with no option for a lifelong annuity. I want her to have the annuity, which means my plans to work longer have a fly in the ointment.
We have life insurance (term life) that expires in 3 years. Another intersection due for a decision. Retire before the term life expires? Or go beyond it and risk dying while still working. Lots of decisions. If we only knew our death date, it would be easy to plan. I have often thought that my life would be miserable for me if I knew my death date. And to think that Jesus knew His. How could he have any joy, knowing what miserable end lay in store for him? So, I am glad I don’t know that detail.
Since I don’t, I must depend on the one who knows all things. And He also loves me very much. If you aren’t sure about that? We were bought with a price, and it was quite a stiff price at that. Anyway, I am asking God for guidance as I try to make these decisions. This is true of life, I think. Looking forward is like looking through muddy water. I can’t see my hand in front of my face. But looking back, I see God’s blessings and help everywhere. I am blessed in ways I never imagined. God is truly bigger than our hopes and dreams.
And should all of my retirement plans go up in flames and down the stock market toilet, I am in His hands. Where better to be? Yesterday, I had to make a decision as to where to invest someone else’s money. I am a steward. I trust God to help me. You see, I cannot walk through the storms of life alone. I need God. I need my Supreme companion. Father in heaven, thank You for walking beside us, in Jesus’ name, Amen!
- Jeff Beall
