I had something completely different in mind for this week’s post. I’ve poured over scripture, typed up some ideas and worked on the first draft. I just can’t seem to concentrate on the topic. Yesterday, that’s all I could think about. While running errands this afternoon, I thought about scripture and turned ideas over in my mind for my original topic. Sitting down to type up my final draft, though, I find myself distracted, overwhelmed.
Index cards decorate one section of my desk. The rest of my workspace has the usual stuff – paper clip holders, rubber bands, stapler, candleholder with a mouse reading a book, a mug with Shakespearean quotes, a lamp. I have a colorful paperweight shaped like a diamond, a Hot Wheel’s version of an Aston Martin (Hey, I can dream, right???), a talking Spock bobble head that reminds me how “Exceptionally Irrational” I am every time I nudge the desk. But, despite the colorful and flashy décor, it’s one of the simple index cards that has me distracted.
Some of the cards are covered with Bible Scripture, verses to remind me to God’s mercy, Christ’s salvation, or even my own weaknesses. Others contain reminders. The one that has my attention is a list of prayer requests. Several of the people listed have health concerns, financial struggles, or upcoming, important events.
What I’ve noticed today, however, is the number of people on my list who are depressed, worried, overwhelmed by the troubles in their lives. Most are people I know, but a few are people I’ve never met – people who’ve reached out to me either through my website, Facebook, or Twitter. One woman has begged me to help her. I don’t know her full name, where she lives or even the full extent of her situation. I only know she has a deep, emotional need. I feel so inadequate, powerless, to help my friends, family and the strangers who’ve cried out for help. I’m having a difficult time not thinking about these hurting people.
I take other people’s problems seriously. I have often wished to have the answers, some magic words, to put an end to people’s worries and anxieties. I understand what it feels like to worry; I have that tendency myself! I don’t like to see people struggling. I’ve come to realize, though, that I can’t help everyone. I can listen; I can offer what little bit of knowledge I have (notice I said “little”). That’s it. The rest, I have to leave to God. So, I pray.
“We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.” Romans 15:1
“Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people,” Ephesians 6:18
Just as the Lord has instructed, I take seriously the needs and set them before the Lord with prayer. We can’t fix everything. God doesn’t expect us to. What He does call us to is a love for others and a willingness to share their burdens and pray for them. I have to leave the rest to the Lord.
