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(Written during the midst of COVID lockdowns in 2020)
"I will love You, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." (Psalm 18:1-2 NKJV)
I walk for stress relief and exercise. I also daily thank God for my numerous blessings. I believe that God has called me to minister to those who are grieving, ill, and struggling. However, the other day, I was having a pity party. I resented all the COVID-19 restrictions placed on me. I felt depleted, defeated, and lonely. Evidently, God felt that it was time to end this pity party, as I clearly heard Him say, "Who touched me?"
Vividly appeared the Mark chapter 5 description of the woman healed of a terrible bleeding disorder and cowering at Jesus' feet. God had my attention. What did the story of this woman's extraordinary faith have in common with my feelings? What did God want me to share in my ministry? Several possibilities flooded my mind, but none seemed to answer my unspoken questions.
As I thought about the woman's faith, I wondered how people without Christian belief are coping during this pandemic. When unbelievers come to the end of their rope, when there is no more physical or mental energy left, what do they do? Then, I received the answer regarding what God wanted me to share!
God has richly blessed me. He has given me physical health, mental resilience, a strong faith, the strength to cope with stress, and the ability to connect with people both in person and in word. Yet, during these days of COVID-19, even I have been challenged some days simply to put one foot in front of another. I know that many reading this devotional have been in the same place. God wanted me to remind you to reach out and touch Jesus to re-invigorate your energy reserves. When we come to the end of our own proverbial rope, it is okay, because we, unlike our secular friends, do not have to rely on our own strength.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13 NKJV)
When we run out of our own strength, we need to reach out in thought and prayer to God. His strength will carry us when our own is depleted.
Prayer: Dear God, thank You for the many blessings that You grant to us — blessings of faith, health, and the basic necessities of shelter and food. Particularly during this pandemic, we are mindful that so many of Your children lack some or all of these blessings. Remind us, God, that when we run out of our own emotional energy, motivation, and physical strength, we need only reach out to You to replenish our limited resources. Alone, we can accomplish very little. With You, Lord, we can do all things. Amen.
Orlanda Drebit
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
Reprinted from PresbyCan with author's permission.
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