Jesus Calling - March 7th

"LET ME HELP YOU through this day. The challenges you face are far too great for you to handle alone. You are keenly aware of your helplessness . . . This awareness opens up a choice: doggedly go it alone or walk with Me in humble steps of dependence . . . difficulties highlight the decision-making process . . . Consider it all joy whenever you are enveloped in various trials. These are gifts from Me, reminding you to rely on Me alone."

It is so difficult for me to rely on anyone--even God Almighty. I even try to cover up the fact of my helplessness-- to myself. I AM "keenly aware" of it, but I deny it, push it down.

I remember several years ago when I broke my right arm badly. I had to admit my helplessness. My husband and my Mom had to do my hair, help me dress and bathe. I am not good at admitting helplessness. And it is UGLY. It's pure flesh, sin nature-- PRIDE and REBELLIOUSNESS. The pride comes from thinking I know best--the dictionary uses the word "superiority"; and from not wanting to show or admit weakness. The rebelliousness is a struggle for me. If someone makes a "suggestion" I automatically want to do the opposite. (Well, not always. ;) If it is my parents or my husband I do.) Again, I think part of that is an insecurity and thinking that they think of me as incapable or dumb. Completely irrational thinking most of the time.

"Doggedly" is a word I don't use much. OK--ever! It just means tenaciously, stubbornly, not giving it up--like a dog with a bone. Hmmm. Sounds a little like rebelliousness.

Walking with an awareness of God's presence in my life requires HUMILITY and dependence. That's tough for me. Seems easier when there are no challenges or decisions to make. But like Sarah Young states, "difficulties highlight the decision-making process." And we suddenly feel overwhelming pressure and forget all about who has already gone ahead of us, and at the same time walks beside us--our Helper, our Guide, our Protector.

It truly is a "gift" to feel consumed by a difficult trial. At that point there is no denying our helplessness and His strength. We must rely on Him and it feels amazing. Rest, peace and security are what He gives us.

 Because you are my helper,
I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings.
I cling to you; your strong right hand holds me securely. (Psalm 63:7-8)