Asking For Help
I believe in keeping a positive attitude. I am a child of the Creator, made in His image and a follower of the Son. With those credentials I should be positive. But every now and then negativity sneaks in, like the past 4 weeks. The problem, once again, is my stupid pride. I like to think I am self-sufficient and maybe sometimes self-contained but as I write down my thoughts I am sitting at my desk in a wheelchair pretty helpless. This will not be the case forever, though it seems that way. Shortly I’ll be walking again. But it has been a hard few weeks as I teach my muscles to work again. Now, doing every day chores has become a nightmare and getting around out in the world is an exercise in futility. These days I need a lot of help. But pride is a stupid thing. I have needed to get over thinking asking for and receiving help is a sign of weakness. But, God is good as He, in the midst of all my trials, led me to this wonderful Psalm. Now not only am I grateful to those who help me, I have a new appreciation for others “imprisoned”, like the person who is confined to a wheelchair, the person consumed with grief or the one who just cannot forgive. As I take a look around I can see so many who are “captives” physically, emotionally and spiritually. All who were created in God’s image, all who are invited to walk with the Son. All who could use some (my) help empathy, understanding and compassion. The two questions I am faced with as I read Psalm 69 are: How can I ignore the cries of the needy? ;And, how can I not reach out to those “imprisoned”; The answer to both questions is “I can’t” But the only way I can is by loving God and people unconditionally, humbling my heart and walking daily with my Lord. Being on the other side has shown me just how much I depend on others help and how much I need God. There is nothing wrong in asking for help. You just might see how many people care about you and how much God loves you. May you be encouraged and glad as the Lord hears your cry. Pastor Walt |