Help

Written By Judy Smith

It seems that there’s no break from cares, concerns, anxieties, and worries. I have children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who I pray for, and each one from the youngest to the oldest is going though some sort of crises, myself included.

As we take the time to pray, help and be a support others, at times  the weight may cause us wonder if it is possible to care too much. Where does Jesus draw the line for our compassion? Matthew 9:36 says, “But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them because they were weary and scattered like sheep having no shepherd.” The NIV translation says that they were harassed and helpless. Another versions says that they were distraught, mislead, and heart- broken.

How far should our compassion extend? As much as Jesus’ does! The difference is, He has the ability to bear caring for all of our needs at once. We were not created to carry these cares; we were created to take the cares to Him. 1 Peter 5:7 AMP casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully].

1 Colossians 3:12-14 “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” If we do these things first and then give every care to Jesus, then the pressure is off!! We can choose to put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. This is how I have learned to handle cares in life.

As soon as I’m overwhelmed with difficulties, I bring them to Him with a thankful heart. Then I ask Him to show me how to handle the situation. The very act of thanking Him releases my mind from negativity. As I turn my attention to Him, the problem fades and loses its power to dominate my thoughts. He lifts the burden and gives me peace as I am in His presence.

Philippians 4:6 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” Learn to relate to others through His love. Human love is limited and flawed. His loving presence and His love is perfect, unfailing an unconditional. His love motivates us to reach out and help others.

We can become drained from interacting with many needy people, while not taking time to rest. Take time to rest in the presence of Jesus. He will restore energy and give grace.

Matthew 11:29 “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” We can approach each new day in Jesus’ presence, before you get out of bed. He has already made the crooked places straight, He has already prepared a path for your day and there are hidden treasures strategically placed along the way. Look for them!

Some of the treasures come out of the trials, which shake us free from self-dependence. Other treasures are the blessings that reveal His presence, such as the beauty of nature, strong friendships, and answered prayers.

He has not abandoned us. He is still present. He is still all-powerful. Search for the deep treasures as you go through each day. You will find Jesus along the way.