I CAN'T DO THIS ANYMORE!
by claribel santiago
Have you ever come to a point in your life where you think "I can't do this anymore?" You feel like your load is so heavy, and there is just no end in sight? You're not alone. We all have those days. Whether a new believer, seasoned saint, or a Billy Graham, those times can seem the most bleak and desperate.
These feelings can be isolating, and many times we think we have to suffer in silence for fear or shame. Not even the knowledge of God's promises can carry us through those times, not because we are bad, or not good enough, nor because God has failed us, but because the enemy has clouded our thoughts and minds.
Bear one Another's Burdens
The enemy of our soul wants nothing more than to destroy us. By convincing us to hide our pain, he renders us ineffective and denies the opportunity for the body of Christ to step in and help us bear our burdens.
Many of us believe it is imperative to be perfectly "blessed" in every area of our lives in order to be a "good Christian". Not so, says the Bible, for if it were true there would have been no need for the Apostles to direct us to "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." Gal 6:2
When the seed of doubt creeps into your mind, Satan's battlefield, remember one thing God's Word is true. If you cannot remember that find a believer who can remind you. When the Opposer encourages you to hide because "no one will understand", that is when you have to find someone you can pray with and tell you that trials are a part of everyone's life.
"No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it." 1 Cor. 10:13 In laymen's terms? You are not alone, we all suffer at one time or another. Whether it be because of our poor choices or everyday circumstances. We all face trials. Yet, God makes no distinction, it doesn't matter what you've done or what has happened, He promises that He "will be with you always..." Matt. 28:19-20
Bring it to the Light
Is there a problem you are facing that seems to have no solution? Is your trouble so great you think it can never work out? Our God is the God of the impossible. He can and will work it out. When you have exhausted yourself done "all you can", let it go and turn it over to Him. Bring your suffering and pain to Him. Cling to the Word, for one thing is true, God will never leave us.
Rely on Truth
When we hide our problems we make decisions based on the heat of the moment, our feelings, and without godly counsel. Many times a poor decision can be costly; especially if that decision is contrary to God's Word. Our feelings, though real, are not always right. Just as a pilot that flies his aircraft must be dependent on his navigation system, no matter what his logic tells him, so must we as believers completely rely on the Word of God, trusting His counsel, for it has proven true.
You cannot rely on what you don't know, so how can you find refuge in the times of trouble? By reading God's Word. See what the scriptures teach us about how other brothers and sisters dealt with times of great tribulation. If you don't study and don't know, then you cannot recall it when you need it.
Trust in Him
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths." Prov 3:5-6 How do we show trust to someone? By accepting what they say as true. How do we acknowledge God in all our ways? By making choices and decisions based on His Word and not our wants or desires.
Don't know the Word? Start reading. Can't find a place to start? Find the Concordance (the back of the Bible) it gives you keywords. You know but don't have the strength to believe it? Find a brother to remind and encourage you of God's promises. You know what it says but don't want to do it? Ask someone you trust to stand in the gap, to pray for and encourage you. Get help, get counsel, don't wait for the seed of doubt to take control!
Have questions? Need prayer? Need encouragement? Need to know your not alone? Drop me a line I want to pray for you and encourage you. (Please read below for encouragement and questions for personal study)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Questions for personal study:
What stands out from the reading?
What verse speaks to you and why?
How can you apply these truths to your life?
How can you be encouraged or an encourager?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Encouragement from God's Word:
"He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty....Psalm 91:1
"Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you." Deut 31:6
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Phil 4:13
"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places," (Eph. 6:12).
"And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us." Rom 5:3-5
Psalm 46 and Psalm 91
|
