Hello Susan,
Sorry to hear about your recent plight regarding the Automobile accident and
your two Adult Brothers. Beloved gave some Scriptural sound advice. Also, I
would like to add this Passage: " But take your stand solid in the faith, knowing
that the same things in the way of sufferings are being accomplished in the entire
association of Brothers in the World. But after you have suffered a little while, the
God of all Grace who called you to his age-lasting glory in Christ will himself finish
your training, he will make you firm, he will make you strong. " 1Peter.5:9,10.
It's most difficult when Family members take advantage of sincere kindness and
hospitality, we(Pam & I) have experienced that recently, to a smaller degree.
I certainly can relate to your Husbands sentiments regarding your Brothers, so
with all of that in mind, the suggestion of providing the necessary necessities; food,
clothing, etc without releasing any Monetary funds is sound advice. A few times in Life,
I had a complete stranger asking for money for the purpose of food. The first time I gave up
some money and viewed him purchasing Alcohol. Thereafter in other instances, I offered
to buy a meal or provide one and was refused.
Of course when dealing with family members(Your Brothers) it's much more difficult due
to Familial Love. Personally, but it's just my " opinion ", don't lay a possible responsibility
towards your Husband. We are all accountable for our actions, the fact you are helping
with your Brothers necessities is admirable.
Without getting into detail, 12 years ago I was homeless for 1-2 months, only one person
in my Congregation helped me. After staying at his House for three weeks and finding a
one room Hilton with money he lent me, I paid back every penny within three weeks and
voluntarily did work for Him(Lawn Mowing), free of charge for one year, to show my
gratitude and appreciation.
Sorry, if I sound alittle unfeeling about all of this, but throughout my entire Life I always
paid for the consequences of my actions, never expecting others to pay for mine. I guess
it " hits a nerve " to hear of others, like yourself being taken advantage of, especially when
it's family members.
In the past few Months, Pam and I have experienced a few Scenarios regarding others
arrogantly and carelessly deciding to do things a certain way that led to a financial
repercussion for us. So instead of them paying for the consequences of their Actions,
we suffered the consequences. In each case, it wasn't simply a mistake, it was a " I
don't care what happens attitude" and a " I Know it all attitude. "
In the case involving the close Family member, I am not at liberty to disclose this matter,
out of personal respect for my Wife.
In the case involving your Brothers, perhaps they really need Professional substance
abuse help. Without that, their lives might be in jeopardy.
My prayers go out to you and may God's guidance direct your steps in this most difficult
time. All of this suffering(Evil) is necessary for our training, even though none of us enjoy
it. When it's from Strangers, it's more endurable. When it originates from Family sources,
it indeed, is a fiery trial.
Kind Regards, Samson.