Promised Purpose

Venesia Bowden

I fondly recall receiving the promise of my "promised purpose child"; however, as time passed, I forgot this promise. Thankfully, my Abba is not slack concerning His promises, and He surely delivered. It was not until my 8th month of pregnancy, while praying regarding a name for my unborn baby, that He gently reminded me of the promise. Oh, blessed assurance! Though this journey is one promised, it has not been without its challenges, particularly in terms of health. My "promised purpose child" has experienced many bouts of illness that continue presently. There were times he would wheeze so much that he would be nebulized a whopping twelve times! We were so frequent at the hospital that we were known personally by healthcare providers and support staff. Thankfully, after changing environments within a year, the wheezing subsided. Nevertheless, the severe allergies persisted.

My sweet "promised purpose child" is quite an energetic bundle! And with that observation came concerns which resulted in a most heart-wrenching diagnosis of special needs. How could this be? Why would God make me such a promise, and now I am here, dealing with special needs? Such a diagnosis is one where no matter how learned or prepared a parent might be, it is one you never want to hear.

I plunged into silence, primarily speaking with my Abba. I had so many questions for Him. Tears became my driving and nightly companion. As time progressed, I experienced His healing and learned more of His truth. I came to the realization that I too am promised and purposed for such a time as this. Learning experientially that the strength of hope lies in the presence of adversity and that I am included in His mercy system, serving as a pharmacist, special needs parenting coach, and neurodiversity specialist.