Weakness is okay...

If I am without faith at times, I must also be a lazy person. Today’s reading begins with this and it is a problem that I don’t recall ever having. It says: “Most Christians commit things to the Lord when on their knees, and then the moment they rise from their knees they take the burden all back on their own shoulders.”  I don’t take back jobs I give away.

Or it could be that the Lord has finally got it through my thick head that I am weak, unable to do much of anything without Him. Of course I’m not talking about things like brushing my teeth or putting on my socks, but even as I write this, I realize that day could come.

Getting older brings weakness of body and mind. Daily I’m praying for physical strength and clear thinking, yet the strength God gives is also about trusting Him for things like the ability to be kind and thoughtful to others, to have compassion and comfort for those in trials, to encourage and be a blessing rather than ignoring or dismissing those who are burdened. He wants me to trust Him for the well-being and salvation of others, and to have His way in this messy world.

Learning to rely on Jesus is a lovely thing. Faith replaces worry and self-effort, but the one thing it does not remove is pride in my ability to trust God when encountering those who have the problem as described above, those who are constantly giving their burdens to God then taking them back on their own shoulders. I keep wanting to sermonize, yet realize my efforts will do more harm than good.
Verses do come to mind. God wants me to trust Him with everything, but not let pride motivate faith or ruin this God-given ability to trust Him.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones. Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the first-fruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine. My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the Lord reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights. (Proverbs 3:5–12)

The wise writer of this proverb notes the motivation for trusting God is not pride. I’m not to ‘lean on’ what I think or boast in me even inwardly, but acknowledge Him. I’m to fear God and honor Him. I’m also to be under His discipline and reproof, indicating that when I get uppity about things, even my faith, He will reprimand me. Trusting God is nothing to brag about or a reason to lord it over those who are having a problem with their faith. God also says:

“Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the Lord.” (Jeremiah 9:23–24)

Actually, I cannot even boast that I understand and know God, except that it is true — not because I did anything to get there but because He introduced Himself to me and brought me into His family. It is always His mercy, not my merit.

PRAY: Jesus, forgive me for being critical and looking down my self-righteous nose at those who struggle to keep their focus on You and Your promises. My faith is not about me but a gracious gift from You that I did not earn and do not deserve. Motivate me to trust You so You are glorified, not me, and so others will not be intimidated, but instead be encouraged to rely on You also.