Most of us find it hard to ask for help but in scripture we find that asking for help is a quality in a leader God loves. Dorothea explains. . .
“The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone.” (Exodus 18:18)
“I need help.”
The first time I uttered that phrase, the words sounded foreign. It was difficult to admit that I had come to a place where I was no longer self-sufficient. I felt weak. I didn’t like the thought of needing someone to help me do the ‘easy’ chores. Whether it was my husband lifting the laundry basket or my children doing the dishes, I thought I should be able to maintain my previous level of activity.
I didn’t cope well with the fatigue that resulted from the slightest form of exertion. I felt embarrassed when I needed complete bed rest. I thought I was useless because I couldn’t go full steam ahead.
It didn’t help that all the women in my family were the same way. I grew up watching my mother, grandmother, and my aunts in constant motion. It was a rare sight to see them relax. So I thought that being swamped and working tirelessly was normal. I tried to keep up the hectic pace until my body flat out refused to budge another inch.
It has been over twenty years since my first diagnosis of chronic illness. Looking back, I sometimes marvel at the lengths I went through, trying to maintain the crazy schedules, even when I knew I was harming my body.
That’s why I find so much comfort in today’s scripture passage. Moses’ father-in-law saw the toll that leading and guiding the children of Israel was taking on Moses. He offered Moses wise advice on how to be the leader God desired (See Exodus 18:17-23).
I’m so thankful when I think of how far the Lord has brought me. How many opinions and ‘should dos’ I’ve let fall away. My life is a lot simpler today that it has ever been. Sometimes I still struggle with the need to depend on others. But I know it is not God’s will for me to exhaust myself when there are loving people in my life who desire to help me.
Prayer: Father, help us not to let pride get in the way of seeking help when we need it. Teach us to be grateful to those in our lives who willingly and lovingly come alongside us to help us. Amen.
About the Author:
Dorothea Love lives in California with her family. She has lived with various chronic illnesses and pain for over 20 years. She relies on God’s grace to strengthen and encourage her each day. She loves to hear from her readers. Please visit her in the Sunroom at: http://www.restministriessunroom.ning.com/profile/Dorothea Love or read some of her other works at http://www.dorothealove.wordpress.com
What makes is hard for you to ask for help when you need it the most? How can you turn this over to God and rest in His care of you?
It can be hard to ask for help–sometimes it is even hard to ask for help from our Lord. This song, “Believer” by the group Kutlqss is a beautiful reminder that God is always there for us. He is taking care of it and will continue to. It comforted me on a tough day and I hope it does you as well. -Lisa
Chronic Illness Pain Daily Devotionals 