When You Can’t Take Care of It
CARA BLONDO, COMPEL Training Member
Lee en español
“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:16 (ESV)
With shoulders slumped and her head hanging, she began: “Mom, there’s a problem …”
As I listened to my daughter share details of a situation, I realized this problem was beyond my authority or influence; I could not get involved. Despite wanting to intervene with every fiber of my being, I had to sit this one out and stay on the proverbial bench.
“I care about this,” I said repeatedly, “but I can’t take care of this.”
As her mother, I cared deeply. I longed to help make things right in order to bring hope to her hurting heart. But I couldn’t. Not this time, not in this situation.
I care about it, but I can’t take care of it …
The words seemed to echo within my heart as my thoughts turned toward my heavenly Father. Then I realized: Never will I come to Him with a problem, concern or heartache and be met with “No, I can’t help you” or “Sorry, I won’t help you.”
Our heavenly Father is both able and willing.
“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).
While I had the heart but not the authority to help my child, God has the heart and the authority to help every one of His children in their times of need.
Why? Because God is King not only over all the earth but over His daughters — you and me. He is present everywhere and sees and knows all. The painful words spoken against us? He heard them. That devastating loss? He saw it. And He is actively involved in our lives for our good and His glory. He rules, reigns, and is seated upon His throne, a symbol of His power, able to make things right and comfort the hurting places within us.
But not only is God able; He is willing, and He beckons us to “draw near” (Hebrews 4:16).
Throughout Jesus’ earthly ministry, those in need continually came to Him: the blind, the lame, the rich, the poor, the seeking, the downcast and the outcast. Whichever you most identify with today, He bids you to come. He is able to help you.
People came to Jesus in times of desperation, helplessness, hopelessness and uncertainty. Now — in your time of need — come. God is willing to help you.
People brought Jesus their questions; their fears; and, yes, their worship. God cares about it all, regardless of what we hold in our hearts or hands at the moment.
Crowds of followers sought comfort, hope, healing and wisdom from Jesus. Whatever you need today or whatever you are seeking, remember this: God cares about it and can take care of it because He cares about you and can take care of you.
Draw near to God’s throne of grace. In doing so, you will find all the help you need.
Heavenly Father, thank You that as Your child, I can be certain of Your care. I never need to question if You are able or willing to help in my time of need. Help me believe You care about and will take care of me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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Today’s devotion writer, Cara Blondo, is a member of COMPEL Writers Training. You can find writing tips, inspiration and community when you follow COMPEL on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
FOR DEEPER STUDY
Psalm 46:1, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (ESV).
Psalm 147:5, “Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure” (ESV).
Consider reading a psalm a day, paying attention to God’s caring heart and capable hands as displayed toward His children.
To be convinced God cares about you and will take care of you, you must be convinced He is both present and powerful, caring and capable. How does God’s care for you in the past encourage you that He will take care of you today? Share your thoughts or examples with us in the comments!
© 2023 by Cara Blondo. All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries
P.O. Box 3189
Matthews, NC 28106
www.Proverbs31.org
Originally published Friday, 21 July 2023.
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