We often hear the quote "God helps those who help themselves". Is this true? It is, to a certain degree. But a much more accurate way to say this would be "God helps those who cannot help themselves." When we, in honest humility, realize that we can truly do nothing, we are in the most powerful position in the entire universe. Ellen White says, "Nothing is apparently more helpless, yet really more invincible, than the soul that feels its nothingness, and relies wholly on God."* Isn't that beautiful? We are residing in the safest place in the universe when we forget ourselves and cast ourselves helplessly on the mercy and grace of Christ. And God is faithful "to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to (His) power that worketh in us."* What a glorious thought! To be emptied of self, that through our weakness, we can be made strong through His power. "They that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." (Is. 40:31) This implies that we must be patient. This promise is given to those who wait with expectant hope upon God, wait for His timing to renew their strength in His way. We must have trust in God.
The great New England preacher Phillips Brooks was noted for his poise and quiet manner. At times, however, even he suffered moments of frustration and irritability. One day a friend saw him feverishly pacing the floor like a caged lion. "What's the trouble, Mr. brooks?" he asked.
"The trouble is that I'm in a hurry, but God isn't!" Haven't we felt the same way many times? We want the blessings that God promises, but we don't want to trust Him with the timing that He plans.
God promises to bless us, to give us strength to accomplish His tasks, if we empty ourselves and allow Him to fill us up. We must cast ourselves at His feet and rely wholly on God. Only then, will we be able to "run with patience the race that is set before us," and, buoyed up by His strength, enter into the joy of our Lord.
Courage Comrades!
*PK p. 175
*Eph. 3:20
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