Recently one of my good friends was in the hospital for a few days with COVID. She rapidly, miraculously, progressed from being on a ventilator in an induced coma through various stages: out of the coma, off the ventilator, out of the ICU, and then out of the hospital altogether. The doctors and nurses expressed surprise at how quickly she bounced back.
On the day she was first allowed to sit up and eat regular food, she texted me. “Just sat in chair and ate. Heavy fork. I was surprised.” I found this amusing. I knew exactly what she meant. She had felt strong until she picked up the fork, but soon discovered she wasn’t as strong as she had thought. Of course, with each successive meal she found more strength had returned to her body.
Later I began to think of how the heavy fork incident relates to our walk with God. When I approach a task, I usually remember to seek Him first and ask for his help. With His wisdom and direction, I can accomplish the task and move on to the next one. But other times, I just forge on ahead, assuming I already know how to do whatever it is. Results?
Things may turn out fine, but most times, not so much.
Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us, “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 direct your paths.” What great advice! The phrase, “in all your ways” is an open invitation, letting us know that no task is too big or too small to bring to God. He wants to be involved in everything we do. In James 1:5 we are told we can ask God for wisdom “in any thing” and He will not reprimand us, but will give it to us liberally.
I’m not sure why we humans seem so prone to falling back on our own understanding when we know God is smarter than we are. I do know that a heavy fork is a clear reminder that my own strength and understanding are not equal to the task. Instead of being annoyed when we encounter a heavy fork, let’s remember to thank God for reminding us that He is always not only ready to help us, but He really wants to.
If you want to learn more about the God who is always ready and willing to help us, come visit Charis Christian Church at 4811 E. Julep St., Mesa, Suite 101.