The Help

It was on my heart this morning to pray for those who feel as though they have no other option but to hurt themselves and/or others.  As I was looking through the bible for the verse about Jesus/God leaving us with a "advocate/helper" (finally found it John 14:16-17), I notice how many times the word "help" was used in the Bible (NIV).  I was encouraged (God hears and helps - my spirit needed that word today) and sadden (some won't, can't, or don't know to ask for help especially when the internal and external noise is so loud) at the same time.  Now I know every reference to "help" in the Bible may not be directly correlated to God/Jesus actually helping someone (not every reference is positive either).  But the point I want to make is that God not only provided Jesus and the Holy Spirit but also He provided us to serve as helpers to one another.  This is a lesson I am slowly learning - we have help in many forms - seek it!  I know that is easier said than done (believe me)!  If you are not strong enough to reach out just yet..pray for help to find you.

I can name so many instances where God allowed help to find me and others that I know!  There are instances where I was called to be that help without the person ever speaking a word to me.  God has given us the help, I pray that we seek it and give it freely, so that the noise does not overtake us.It is OK to cry out/ask for "help" from God and others!

I would love to read your experiences with helping others or how you have allowed others to help you.  My hope is that others may read the stories as well.  Irons Sharpens Irons!   Be encouraged!


ENCOURAGEMENT UPDATE...2.15.12
In light of some recent incidents where it seems as thought the person was at a "loss" for the appropriate help for their situation, I want to share a poem a friend/mentor/fellow life giver, Jen Price-Davis, wrote on Valentine's Day.  I truly believe deep down that those of us who are hurting and then hurt ourselves or others feel as though we are not seen, heard or loved.  Lashing out is our only way to get the "attention" we seek, sometimes at costs that are not reversible.  Her poem entitled Love was so timely I think for this present moment.  Not that I think people are hurting more than they have been in the past, however I do believe the "out cry" is louder now (literally and figuratively).

My hope is that this poem will be an encouragement to you or to others.  Please share!!!  
Love - Jen Price Davis