Help, Lord, I Need You

Help, Lord, I Need You

Forsaken Tiger Yearns for a Glimmer of Hope

“Quietly trust yourself to Christ your Lord, and if anybody asks why you believe as you do, be ready to tell him, and do it in a gentle and respectful way.” 1 Peter 3:15 TLB

News of the day can be depressing. Praying for our leaders seems hopeless. Any sense of “normal” is surely gone forever. All creation yearns for peace and stability.

Today I was reminded—yes, convicted—of my role and responsibility as a Child of God in challenging times.

It is, after all, my personal choice. Do I join in the discussion, the tearing down of a person? Or, do I instead pray and trust God to help me see others, including our president, as His creation? Teach me, Father, to pray for his soul, for his family, and his responsibilities, just as I would have others pray for me.

Here are a few choices I have made for myself as the political atmosphere continues to heat up.

#1. I can seriously ask God for forgiveness for my attitude, and my lack of faith in His leading. “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7 Click here to read all of 1 Peter 5.

#2. I can obey God as I pray for the current and future presidents and all those in authority. “ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people; for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” 1 Timothy 2:1-2

#3. I can remember it is God Who puts people in power. Romans 13:1 and 1 Peter 2:13, 15. Paul and Peter were not excusing wrong behavior. They were being persecuted, yet they were honoring God with their obedience.

#4. I can be honest with God. To obey Him as above does not mean I understand or even like what happens. I can tell God I don’t get it, I’m unhappy, confused, and hurting.

#5 I can pray for wisdom and a softened heart! “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” James 1:5

#6 I can be thankful in all things! I am reminded that our mission as Christians is not to change the nation through political reform, but to change hearts through the Word of God.

Thank you for praying for me and for each other. I know God’s continual tugging at my heart is in answer to the faithful, loving prayers of others. Beloved, now more than ever, we need each other.

Please let me know how I can pray for you. And thanks for taking the time to comment below.

Hugs,

Susie

Unsung Heroes of the Faith

 

“And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Colossians 3:17 NKJV

The music leader proudly announced that the men in the congregation would provide the special music for Father’s Day. Tears welled up in my eyes as these towers of strength ambled forward, opened their songbooks, and sang from their hearts.

As they began to sing, I asked God to forgive me when I refused to sing out for Him in small groups because “I can’t sing”. I thanked Him that I have a voice, memory to know the words, and freedom to worship where I choose.

Each of these men struggles with health and other issues, yet are in God’s house every time the doors are open. They rush to meet needs in the community, sharing God’s love at every opportunity. Singing is clearly not their forte, yet they stand tall and give their best for Jesus’ sake when called upon.

Did they harmonize? Did they get every note (or any note) right? I don’t know. All I know is five courageous men stood tall before a small family congregation and poured out their hearts and souls to the only One Who mattered in the room.

“My hope is built on nothing less, Than Jesus Christ, my righteousness, I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly lean on Jesus’ name. On Christ the Solid Rock I stand, All other ground is sinking sand... “..

Click here to hear an audio of this beautiful hymn. Make it your prayer today.

God was glorified.

Families were proud.

And Susie cried!

Learning to Listen with Our Hearts

“Are you listening to me? Really listening?” Matthew 11:15 MSG

“I love the Lord because he has heard my voice and my pleas for mercy. Because he inclined his ear to me, therefore I will call on him as long as I live.”  Psalm 116:1-2

I want to learn to listen like that! God inclines His ear to me when I talk. I want to hear with my heart so that I don’t forget what is said to me. I want others to know I do care about them.

Listening involves more than merely hearing.

We are wise to learn to listen. Especially today with so many diversions at our fingertips, focusing our attention on a single conversation can be difficult. As we put forth effort to become a better listener, we benefit others as well as ourselves. You may find, as I have, some of these simple tips are easier said than done!

How you appear to the one speaking may let them know you care.

1. Look the person in the eye as you listen. This may seem oversimplified or unnecessary, especially if you are busy meeting immediate needs and you genuinely feel you don’t have time for conversation. Pausing for a few seconds to look at them directly as you smile or pat a hand or shoulder is a visual sign you genuinely care and have their best interests in hand.

Your answers can help others communicate better.

2. Do give feedback that encourages further communication. No one wants to hear, “I know how you feel”. A better comment would be, “That must be difficult for you”. Saying “I’m so sorry you feel this way” will often help to win trust and build confidence.

There is a time to give advice and a time to wait.

3. Learn to listen without giving advice. This can be extremely difficult, especially if you feel you understand the circumstances. Make a note if you think this is a topic that may need to be addressed at a later time or with others responsible for their well-being.

Click here for what the Bible has to say about listening.

Learn why certain topics are repeated more than others.

4. Try not to get impatient with repeated conversations. Put yourself in the other person’s shoes; consider why these stories might be so important. Listen for clues that may help the person, family, or you as a caregiver.

Most people simply want someone to love them; to genuinely care about their needs.

5. Do not judge the person by what they say. You may not relate to what is said or agree, but you can show the courtesy of listening politely.

Knowing you care will build trust, help reduce tension, and release emotions. Taking time to listen, even for a few short minutes, will encourage further conversations and can produce life-changing results for all.

We can learn from Jesus who said, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heaven laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me: for I am meek and ye shall find rest for your souls.”   Matthew 11:28-29

Hugs,

Susie