SELF-HELP OR GOD-HELP

 1Samuel 2;1-11

"It is not by strength that one prevails" (1Sam. 2:9a).

Self- help or God-Help

Many people are into "self-help." Religious self-help books are at or near  the top of Christian book sales almost every year. People are always interested in finding a solution that will meet their need in "five east steps." This is nothing new.

People have tried various self-help remedies through  the centuries to cure problems, like the infertility Hannah faced. We don't know if Hannah tried any of these remedies before she turned to the Lord in prayer. What we do know is that when God answered her prayer, she could  not give the Lord enough praise foe all he had done. She makes her boast in the Lord. This was the Lord's doing.

When you think about it, "self-help" is naturally limited by what "self" can do. Hannah discovered that with "God-Help" there are no limits. His strength and authority are boundless.

We could use more "God-help." It can still be found when we, like Hannah, turn to God in earnests prayer. "Self-help" may bring self-satisfaction and self-confidence, "God-help" will ultimately result in praise, thanksgiving, and increased faith. Then we, too, will lift our hearts and voices in rejoicing to the Lord.

God meets our prayers with the challenge, "Do you believe I am able to do this?" Unless the answer is, "Yes, Lord," we might as well save our breath to blow soap bubbles (W.E. McCumber)


written by: Duane Brush
(Editor of Word Action)




 Word Action