Overwhelming Help – Darlene Edmondson
“Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit says the Lord of Hosts” (Zech 4:6 Amp)Perhaps you recall an ancient fable about the mud-turtle sitting on top of a fence post. Apparently, he had help. Of course, the turtle needed assistance and so do we. However, we tend to thrive on self-sufficiency. Strutting around we proclaim our natural abilities. Eventually, however, our human fortitude falls short or runs aground. Afterward, shame can slip into our thought processes. Then unsurprisingly, shame cracks open a door of additional devaluation. Over time, setbacks may cause us to flounder, sort of like quicksand that can slowly suffocate the desire to try again.
Even Moses and David fell short at times. After forty years of desert wanderings, Moses wanted to throw in the towel. Obviously, the whole nation could have been ‘dead in the water’ (Red Sea), but God had drowned the enemies instead. Furthermore, God supplied adequate food, water and shelter for their journey, but giving into despair, Moses was ready to quit. Another stalwart model is King David. He looked defeated, hid in caves, escaped death, pretended insanity, and barely escaped his murderous son Absalom. With mounting troubles and heartaches, both Moses and David were forced to forsake their natural talents to go forward, choosing instead to rely upon the Holy Spirit’s power, where they discovered great success.
“… though I walk through the valley of death, I will fear no evil, for you Oh Lord are with me” (23rd Psalm).
Overall, the Lord has been shown to be the God who keeps His covenant promises. He is the God who calls, empowers, and uses our weaknesses for his glory. He is displayed as the faithful God who cares for, provides for, and protects his people. Therefore, when we come to the point of recognizing our own imperfections, failures and weaknesses, instead of succumbing to despair, we too can choose to rely solely on God’s strength, power and spiritual help. Victory for us happens the same way today as it did in the days of Moses and David.
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