Thursday, April 22, 2021

HELPLESSNESS - THE MANNA OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE

 


 
One of the hardest lessons for us to learn is that we are helpless without Jesus (John 15:4-5; 2 Corinthians 1:8-9; 3:5).
 
We want to feel that we are in control of our lives but uncontrollably obsess on our hurts, while our efforts and prayers to honor our Lord are swept aside by our anger, and we can find no relief. Often, we despair of our helplessness and vulnerability.
 
Here are a few truths, which I continue to learn. First, trust only in the Lord. It is He who must deliver us (1 Corinthians 10:12-13). God’s purpose is to show us that we cannot trust in ourselves:
 
·       Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones. (Proverbs 3:5-8; 2 Corinthians 1:8-10; Psalm 62)
 
Turn away from any evil schemes, even though it feels like you are entitled to them. Entrust your weaknesses and desperation to the Lord:
 
·       Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you...And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. (1 Peter 5:6-7, 10)
 
Do not worry that you are helpless. We are the very ones to whom our Savior draws near:
 
·         When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. God knows what He is accomplishing in your life and awaits “the proper time.” The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all. (Psalm 34:17-19)
 
Just remember that He loves you above anything you can imagine (Ephesians 3:19), and that you are in His hands as He works all things for your good (Romans 8:28).

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