In Need of Support

There are many people who are in need of help in some shape or form but won’t ask because it is viewed in their minds as a sign of weakness.  We feel as if we must press forward even when we are struggling because we should be able to handle whatever we are facing on our own.

I had this very thought the other morning while walking on the treadmill.  Initially when I decided to start eating better and exercising my plan was to walk at a reasonable pace on the treadmill 3xs a week and push myself a little more on two other days.  Having the easy days alternating really helped to encourage me to get through my harder days.  Well this week I felt like I would be able to do the harder walk for all 5 days.  The first day was fine and the second day was ok as well, so on the third day I decided I would try to complete my time without holding on to the bars for support.

As I attempted this I struggled and felt a little defeated.  I tried to push through and I although I needed the help that was present, meaning the bars, I felt that holding onto them was me being weak. Then I felt God speak to me and let me know that reaching out for help when I needed it was fine.  He reminded me that the bars were that for that very reason.  To be my support when I needed it the most.

2nd Corithians 12:9 says, “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.”

Here I was trying to be strong on my own when I was feeling weak and I didn’t have to.  All I had to do was to reach out to the support that was right there by my side and rest.  I could finish my walk without needing to do it on my own.  One day when I am stronger I will be able to walk on my own.  But for now, I have comfort in knowing that when I reach out for help it is a sign of humility and strength not one of weakness.

Sheryll