[04/22/2023 “teEn-MAIL”]
[This focus was originally sent 03/18/2005 (Edited some and resent 03/22/2009)]
Consider the following:
“THE PIT”
A man fell into a pit and couldn’t get himself out.
A SUBJECTIVE person came along and said: “I feel for you down there.”
An OBJECTIVE person came along and said: “It’s logical that someone would fall down there.”
A PHARISEE said: “Only bad people fall into a pit.”
A MATHEMATICIAN calculated how he fell into the pit.
A NEWS REPORTER wanted the exclusive story on his pit.
A FUNDAMENTALIST said: “You deserve your pit.”
An I.R.S. MAN asked if he was paying taxes on the pit.
A SELF-PITYING person said: “You haven’t seen anything until you’ve seen my pit.”
A HUMANIST said: “Just confess that you’re not in a pit.”
An OPTIMIST said: “Things could be worse.”
A PESSIMIST said: “Things will get worse.”
Jesus, seeing the man, took him by the hand and LIFTED HIM OUT OF THE PIT.
[original source unknown]
What would we do if God only helped us out of the situations we got into by no fault of our own? To be honest with ourselves, most of the challenges we face are because of the choices we have made. Praise God He is willing to meet us where we are (regardless of how we got there) as we turn our heart toward Him. God’s helping hand is not extended because the help is deserved, but because it is needed and He is Willing and able to provide it. What is our own focus when we are able to provide the help others need? Do we analyze the situation and excuse ourselves from acting because we determine they made their own bed so they can lie in it?
Solomon exhorted. . .
“(27) Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it. (28) Do not say to your neighbor, “Go, and come again, tomorrow I will give it” — when you have it with you.” (Proverbs 3:27-28 ESV)
James, as he was discussing the idea of faith and works going together, also stated. . .
“(15) If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, (16) and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?” (James 2:15-16 ESV)
Prayer is an element which should never be left out of the picture. It is right to pray for others and good to have the prayers of others offered on our own behalf. However, there are situations which require our action as well. It is important to recognize times when we may be the instrument by which God brings an answer to those prayers regarding the needs and situations of others. Consider the number of times Jesus stretched out His hand toward those who needed help both physically and spiritually. As we recognize what we are able to provide in assisting others, let us continue to walk in His steps.
Have a great day WILLING TO EXTEND A NEEDED HELPING HAND!
Carl
