Helpless (Thought-Provoking Thursday)
Photo Credit: PDM, via Pixabay
You know that moment when you know you are about to crash — you can see the other vehicle coming straight for you at the last second, and you hit the brakes and hold your breath and lock your arms and your gut screams “Stop now.”
That happened to me this weekend. Except I wasn’t in my car. I was sitting in the sanctuary.
Someone I love and respect made terrible choices, and I am a wreck.
The morning after the crash, I sat down to read and was reminded that I have a Good Shepherd who will never leave me nor forsake me. He laid down His life to protect me.
I remembered that I am but a helpless sheep. I am prone to wander. I am stubborn and really stupid sometimes. If I don’t listen closely to the voice of the Good Shepherd and follow Him down the right path, I am open to the attacks of wolves who seek to destroy me.
May I never forget that I am helpless without Him.
Indeed, sad news. But, maybe his admission of guilt will be the first step towards repentance and reconciliation. We know the Lord’s forgiveness is there, and so is His love.
GOD BLESS.
This is my prayer, Sharon. That God would restore this family. They are very dear to us here in Fort Lauderdale.
Lyli –
It is sad news when we read of the wrong choices of another. The effects are more far reaching than can be imagined. I have come to realize how we are all just one decision away from making a wrong choice ourselves. May we pray for them for God to bring His forgiveness and healing. I pray for you as you all work past the disappointment and the hurt. May you keep your eyes on Jesus, Who alone is our perfect leader.
I will be praying today,
Joanne
Thank you, Joanne. I am thankful that Jesus is the author and perfecter of my faith. I am keeping my eyes firmly on Him.
Lyli, Praying for you today. There is no mountain our Lord cannot climb. Please remember this. He makes beauty out of ashes, and what may seem like the impossible right now to overcome, is very easy with Him. I’ve witnessed it over and over again. Keep circling this in prayer and allow your friend to work out his issues with God.
Be careful not to create your own sins during these times if you two were very close (speaking truth in love here, sister in Christ), it is easy to lash out, but much harder to give mercy and grace and kindness, as Christ does. If you need to say something to let it out, be very wise who you speak to and what stays in your heart. Saying it to God is best, He will understand.
Let time and Christ work. God be with you. I’m here if you need to talk, give me a shout.
Kim
Kim, thank you for your words of wisdom here. I am thankful for you.
Thanks for sharing this story, Lyli. The enemy seems to be after marriage in particular I guess because it is the foundation of the family and society. I pray the family will get through this intact and the pastor will accept God’s grace and mercy. His honest confession is a first step to redemption and healing.
Yes, Laura. I see this first hand in my home. There is a battle being waged, and marriage is on the front lines.
Me too Lyli. Me too. Amen.
Hugs, my sister
Praying for you Lyli – I know that feeling – sometimes it makes us want to let go of the one who crashed into us when it is a call to hold tighter – through prayer!
“You’re my servant, serving on my side.
I’ve picked you. I haven’t dropped you.’
Don’t panic. I’m with you.
There’s no need to fear for I’m your God.
I’ll give you strength. I’ll help you.
I’ll hold you steady, keep a firm grip on you” (Isaiah 41:10)
Thank you, Maryleigh. Love that translation of Isaiah 41:10! 🙂
I’m so sorry for the pain from that crash, Lyli. It’s never easy to watch someone we respect make poor choices. But I love your response to it..that it’s a reminder to all of us that we’re helpless without our Shepherd and we must stay close to Him.
Staying right at His feet — it’s the best place to be!
Thanks for Hosting Lyli! And for visiting me earlier this week! I know how hard it is to be disappointed by others, but we are all selfish, sinful sheep who need our shepherd daily! This life is hard but so thankful for His grace!
Yes, Andrea! I am so thankful for and in need of His grace daily. 🙂
I am so sorry you and your church are having to walk through this. I once heard that our true character is revealed in how we deal with another’s sin. Perhaps there is some truth in this. Praying for all involved in this situation, and especially for you.
Love that perspective, Elizabeth. I know that you and your husband are serving your church in the pastoral position. Thank you for all that you do to serve the body. I have been reminded this week that we need to be faithfully praying for our pastors and their families.
Oh, Lyli, I know the LORD is comforting you and will. I lift this to our Father with you. The reminder of our name given by Jesus as sheep is such a perfect picture of the way we are…helpless, not smart, in need of constant attention. I love W. Phillip Keller’s book, “A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23.” It really gives insights into just how sheep are and how we are so much like them! In fact, I believe it is time to reread that book. It has been awhile.
Sweet Lyli, thanks for retweeting my post from last week’s lessons from Good Morning Girls’ “Why Easter Matters” study. I know you are an Encourager over there. You have encouraged me! Thanks, sweet girl.
With love and care, ~ linda
I read that Keller book years ago, and have thought about it this week quite a bit. I need to find it on the shelf…
I am really enjoying that “Why Easter Matter” study over at Good Morning Girls. Aren’t you? 🙂
This was a painful crash I’m sure. The impact of it…not to go away anytime soon. I’m so sorry. Yes…we need Christ’s redeeming work in our lives constantly. Praying for healing for you, your church and your pastor.
I am so thankful that He redeems all. Thanks for praying, Amy.
Lyli, I am so sorry. It’s hard when someone we love respect and trust fails us. I’ve been there, more than once. Sadly, also in the context of the church family. I’m glad you are staying centered and focused. I am praying for healing and unity. Blessings, my friend.
thanks, June. May He who has not sinned cast the first stone. Right?
Lyli, thank you for being the hostess and encourager you are……and for this truly ‘Thought Provoking’ post!
Jody, thanks for joining us. 🙂
Without Him, we can do nothing. Thanks for the beautiful post & for hosting & God bless.
So glad you are here, Laurie!
I just want to put my arms around that little lamb and squiiiish him! 🙂 Isn’t it good to know, though “man” fails us, our God never disappoints! Thanks for hosting Lyli! ~ Jen
I am leaning into Him right now, Jen. I am so thankful that His promises hold true.
Lyli,
So sorry to hear you and your church is processing this…praying comfort for you and all those involved….grateful we have a good Shepherd who will never fail us when earthly ones do…
Thanks, Dolly. He is faithful.