Trail Marker #32Navigating Financial Challenges of Chronic Illness: A Christian Perspective

Living with a chronic illness can bring about numerous challenges, and among them, financial difficulties often take a toll on individuals and families. In times of health crises, it's essential for us to turn to our faith for guidance and strength. This podcast aims to provide practical insights on navigating the financial aspects of chronic illness.

Trust in God's Provision:

In Philippians 4:19, we are reminded that God is our ultimate provider. "And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." In times of financial strain due to chronic illness, placing trust in God's provision can bring comfort and peace. For many years, I struggled with trusting God. It was through reading scripture that I learned His characteristics and found that He is trust-worthy and faithful to supply all our needs. 

Stewardship and Wise Financial Planning:

We are called to be good stewards of the resources entrusted to us. It is important to develop a financial plan. Years ago I participated in a class called Financial Peace University developed by Dave Ramsey. Part of the financial plan was to tell the money where to go rather than the money ruling you. Each month the plan is to assign your income to different categories. If that envelope category no longer has money, then you don’t buy anything in that category. To keep my finances on point, I use a program called YNAB (You Need A Budget). It is important to set aside categories for medical expenses, insurance coverage, transportation to appointments, all taking in consideration of any changes to your income. Proverbs 21:5 encourages thoughtful planning: "The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance."

Community Support and Fellowship:

In times of chronic illness, reaching out to fellow believers for emotional and financial support. If you are one that isolates when you are overwhelmed, that you are not alone. I have had to learn that others want to help. I just have to ask. Galatians 6:2 emphasizes mutual support: "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."

Prayer for Financial Wisdom:

Seeking God's guidance through prayer is a vital aspect of Christian life. When facing financial challenges, pray for wisdom in managing resources, making sound financial decisions, and finding ways to lessen the burden of chronic illness. James 1:5 encourages believers to seek wisdom through prayer. "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be give to you."

Exploring Healthcare Assistance Programs:

Many countries and communities offer healthcare assistance programs for individuals with chronic illnesses. Some of the programs I recommend are:

• Local Food Pantry: There are some that provide specific resources such as household goods (laundry detergent, shampoo, etc.) Others focus on only food. https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank

• Drug Companies: Many drug companies will pay for your medication. I was prescribed medication that was not covered by the insurance. A friend advised me that she had contacted Pfizer and they paid for that medication. Through her advice, I sent in the application which my doctor had signed and they have been paying it for over 12 years.

• Local Hospitals and Doctor Offices: Another medication I was prescribed was denied. When I contacted the doctor to see if there was another medication similar that the insurance would pay for, he told me that there was not another medication similar to the first one. He did however tell me that the University of Michigan had a Patient Assistance Program. The form was completed by me with a separate section that he filled out. Each month I would go to Ann Arbor to their pharmacy and they paid for my medication. Also check with your doctor's offices for samples they have received from drug representatives.

• Insurance Appeals: Always appeal any decision you don’t agree with. There are times that claims are not being paid because of an error. As someone who is medically retired from a major insurance company, I can tell you that calling will give you answers as to why it wasn’t paid but also find out that it was supposed to be paid. Another tip is that many insurance companies do not want to spend money for an appeal board to review each file submitted by you and the medical community. It is more cost efficient for them to pay for the claim. Which means, always appeal a bill that wasn’t paid.

Proverbs 3:27 advises, "Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due when it is in your power to act."

Contentment in God's Plan:

Chronic illness may bring about a shift in our sense of identity, lifestyle and financial circumstances. It is important to remember our identity is not based on our health, our job, our relationships but our identity is based on Christ. He has a plan and a purpose for our life (Jeremiah 29:11). Embracing contentment in God's plan and recognizing that true wealth is found in spiritual blessings can provide a sense of peace. 1 Timothy 6:6 reminds believers, "But godliness with contentment is great gain."

Financial Counseling and Guidance:

To receive financial guidance, contact me as a life coach for help. I can also point you to financial counselors who can provide in-depth strategies for managing finances during chronic illness. Proverbs 15:22 encourages seeking counsel: "Without counsel, plans fail, but with many advisers, they succeed."

Conclusion:

Navigating the financial aspects of chronic illness involves a combination of trust in God's provision, wise stewardship, community support, prayer, and practical steps. By including these principles into our financial journey, we can find strength and resilience in the face of chronic illness, relying on our faith as we walk this road to restoration.

You can receive  help to Rise Above Chronic Illness through one-on-one coaching for 12 weeks. To learn more, schedule a FREE discovery call at linktr.ee/beingrestoredtojoy