The other day I was sitting outside, enjoying what might be the last warm day of summer. I do love the change of summer to fall. To me it is the best of the season changes.
While sitting there, I noticed an ant struggling to carry a piece of a leaf that was obviously to big for his tiny body. I watched for a few minutes amazed at how he didn’t give up. What happened next got me thinking.
I saw two more ants come alongside the first ant helping to carry the load. Isn’t it just like us? We struggle and pull and try to carry the load of burdens, often without asking for help. We even try to do things on our own without talking to God about it. I know I am guilty of doing just that. Sometimes it isn’t until we are about to really crack that we start to ask for help. We tend to cry out to God for help when we are at our wit’s end and all seems hopeless. Sometimes we don’t want to appear weak or vulnerable, yet God knows our weaknesses. He knows what we need and is waiting for us to talk to Him in prayer. I recently read a devotional that stated God wants us to ask for help. He never meant for us to do His will alone. God is the one who helps and guides us on the right path.
“Some people think God does not like to be troubled with our constant coming and asking. The way to trouble God is not to come at all.” –Dwight L. Moody
Isaiah 30:18-19 “So the LORD must wait for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion. For the LORD is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for his help. O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. He will be gracious if you ask for help. He will surely respond to the sound of your cries.”
There is nothing wrong with seeking help, in fact Scripture encourages it. So when you feel like you are really starting to struggle to carry that burden talk to God and seek wise counsel: your pastor, church leaders, close friend, or family member. Pray through those struggles and always remember that if we ask for help God is gracious and will surely respond.
Blessings,
Jimmie Lu
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