Sometimes You Have To Pass the Ball

June 10, 2009

~Denise Grant

 

“For he who avenges blood remembers; he does not ignore the cry of the afflicted.”  Psalm 9:12

 

Something to Think About:

 

~Do you truly believe that God is still at work in the world today – how about in your life?

 

~Have you ever felt helpless as you watched events unfold knowing there was nothing you could do to help?

 

~Do you feel your responses in both good and difficult times would be any different if your faith in God was deeper?

     Strength, determination and self-reliance aren’t enough in life – you must learn to trust God above everything. God says He will not forget the cries of those who suffer. When you call out to God, He bends down His ear to listen, just as a father lends his ear to listen to his child.

 

     Very few men have made a greater impact inside their chosen profession than Michael Jordan. He entered the NBA in 1984 and as a rookie, averaged 28.4 points. He led the league in scoring four of his first six seasons – but lacked what he wanted most – a championship. Interestingly, when Michael began depending more on others and thinking less about scoring points, he finally got the championship he coveted.

 

     In life, we want to be doctors of our destiny and masters of every situation, but too often we discover the reality that not all of life; a child’s illness - company problems - a downturn in the world’s economy - gas prices - conflicts among family - nasty neighbors - wayward children or a ballgame’s final score, is under our control.

 

     The good news is that with trust in God you are never powerless or helpless. Paul was quite an impressive character: He had his day’s equivalent of two doctoral degrees (law and theology). He was a religious fanatic who followed the letter of the law to a “T” “…as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for legalistic righteousness, faultless.” Philippians 3:6. He came from a wealthy and influential family, “… of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee;” Philippians 3:5. But it was when he discovered that all his efforts and abilities weren’t enough that he truly became a powerful influence for God. He ultimately helped unveil the Christian faith.

 

     That’s why he was quick to say, “But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things” Philippians 3:7-8 and he added, “The less I have, the more I depend on Him” 2 Corinthians 12:10. This great orator pointed out, “My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power” 1 Corinthians 2:4.

 

     Just like the Apostle Paul, God has blessed you with gifts and talents to make a difference in your world. But He’s also created you with the need to depend on Him consistently. Do you turn everything over to God first before trying to handle it on your own?

 

        Sometimes the greatest challenge in our lives is not to try harder but to trust more.

 

God Will:

 

Help you – “He is able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and are going astray, since he himself is subject to weakness.” Hebrews 5:2

 

Send people to you – “May he send you help from the sanctuary and grant you support from Zion”. Psalm 20:2

 

Give you peace – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

 

Be on your side – “The Lord is with me; he is my helper. I will look in triumph on my enemies.” Psalm 118:7

 

     Are you facing some situations that you simply don’t have the resources to solve on your own? Have you spent time in prayer putting these situations into God’s hands, asking Him to do what you are unable to do?

 

Heavenly Father,

 

     You see the mess I often make of my life when I try to do things on my own. The truth is I can do nothing without You. I need You – all the time – in every situation. Please help me release all my burdens unto You oh Lord. Do what I cannot do. Fix what I cannot fix. Heal what I cannot heal. In Jesus, Your precious Son’s name, Amen.

Denise Grant - Just "clay" in the Master Potter's hands.

 

May we as Christ-believers bear more fruit of the Spirit: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-control. (Galatians 5:22)