Give Me Strength
“Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge” (Psalm 62:8).
The phone rings and I look at caller ID. Noooo! I just do not want to talk to her right now; I don’t have an hour to give her and listen to her go on and on about her problems.
ME: Father, give me strength to talk to this lady!
JESUS: Do not answer that call! We need to talk.
ME: I am sorry for that mini-tantrum but every time she calls, she just goes on forever about what is happening or not happening in her life. I don’t really care anymore. If she ever wrote a book, it would be longer than War and Peace.
JESUS: You once did? Did you really care about her and the challenges she faces?
ME: Yes, I think I truly cared once upon a time but the conversations are the same as they were thirteen years ago without many changes. It is all about her!
JESUS: She calls to share her pain because she has built trust with you over the years.
ME: Thirteen years is a long time to have the same miserable life with the same causes. It would appear that she has not learned a thing during this time because she still lets people take advantage of her and steal from her.
JESUS: Why does she bother you so much?
ME: Because I have told her what to do or what not to do and she still follows the old patterns of behavior.
JESUS: What would happen if I chose to treat you as you want to treat her? Sorry, precious child, I am tired of you making mistakes because you won’t listen to Me or do what I tell you to do. I am just not going to talk with you for a while.
ME: I would feel very lost and alone. But I am not her savior, You are!
JESUS: True, but she is still very lost and feels alone.
ME: Ok, so what do You want me to do?
JESUS: Well, for starters, imagine living a day in her life. Feel her feelings, her hurts, her isolation and her distrust of people. Many have used her and let her down—even her own family. Use your words to encourage her and strengthen her.
ME: I asked You to give me strength, didn’t I?
JESUS: Yes, and you are going to use My strength to care for her just as I care for you.
ME: My life is not nearly as messed up as hers.
JESUS: But it once was!
ME: OUCH! I will call her back lat…
JESUS: NOW!
If We Are the Body with Casting Crowns
Father God, please help me to see others as You see them and not to compare. Your mercy, love and faithfulness has made me stronger. Let my words encourage others. AMEN.