Monday; July 12

One of the challenges of growing up is the desire to be independent combined with an understanding of the need to ask others for help. Early in life, we can’t wait to grown-up enough to do things by ourselves. Everything from tying our shoes to walking ourselves to school to choosing our own wardrobe is part of the process of becoming our own person. However, with maturity comes an understanding that we can’t do everything by ourselves – nor do we have to do everything on our own. In fact, allowing others to help us can produce better results and coopering together can be fun.

As I thought about this process of human development, I also got to thinking about how it applies to our spiritual lives. The Bible tells us, “So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling …” (Philippians 2:12); but it also says, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.” (Matthew 7:7-8). In essence, we need to do what we can to develop ourselves, then turn to others and to God when we reach our limits. The key to a contented and fulfilled life is the wisdom to know when to do which.
Let’s put forth the effort to make the most out of life – but not be afraid to ask for help. When we become accomplished at both, we’ll get more out of our lives.

Think About It!

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