What Happens Next?

You may be trying to figure out what to do now. You’ve lost your spouse, and you’re world has been turned upside down. The first step you need to take is to ask God for His guidance, and ask that He pour His grace upon you and your family. The second step you need to take is to start looking at the financial and employment situation in your life and its stability.

Here are some questions that may be beneficial as you being to reevaluate your life and start creating a new direction for you and your family. (Not all questions will apply to everyone. Focus on those that will help you restructure your life in a way that is useful to you.)

• How can I reach out to my church home for help during this time?

• I know I need to find a church home that will minister to my needs and help me through this time.

• Is it imperative that I keep the job I have?

• Should I consider getting a second job?

• How can I restructure my financial picture giving me the ability to ensure that all financial obligations are met?

• If I’m not currently working, in what field should I seek employment, and will it pay enough to meet the monthly expenses?

• Is it smart to go back to school to better equip me for a strong financial future for myself and my family?

• Is going back to school an immediate goal or a long-term goal?

• Should I move from my current location, providing me with a fresh start or to be closer to loved ones?

• Is it best to stay in my current home and begin to reshape my life in an area with which I am familiar?

• What am I going to do about childcare? Maybe I can talk to some of my friends or co-workers about their childcare providers.

• What type of aid is available for someone in my situation?

• Should I begin to seek counseling for myself or my family?

• In looking at the amount of life insurance that I have received, how should I best spend this money?

• Should I pay off some bills and save some money for unknown expenses, childcare, etc.?

• Should I pay off all bills?

• Maybe I should seek advice from a financial expert in the ways to best utilize this money.

These questions are a guide to help you create a roadmap to the start of a changed life. You will undoubtedly begin to build your own checklist as well. Remember, Jeremiah 29:11 states “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD." Therefore, He will be with you in each new phase. These previously listed real-life questions will help you begin determining a direction to move forward. Continue to ask God for help, and as you take a step forward, He will take two.