Feeling so powerless

When was the last time you felt powerless? Perhaps you’re feeling powerless and helpless at this very moment. It’s such a horrible feeling – how are you responding? When I thought about this question, I concluded that I usually respond in one of two ways. One way is to feel anxious, especially if I’m unable to do anything about a situation that could be very harmful to me or someone I love, like serious illness, loss of work or reputation. The other option is that I can get angry and frustrated, as if I am trying to change the situation, despite the fact that, in reality, I have no power over it. For example being stuck in stationary traffic when I’m desperate to get somewhere, or maybe someone takes something precious from me or prevents me from doing something I feel strongly about. In these situations I might find resentment, anger or frustration rising up.

How about you? Have you ever considered how you respond when you’re powerless? Today’s verse tells us God’s view of the matter, which is a bit different to ours. He says that weakness and powerlessness can be good for us. Our first reaction might be to disagree with that! Actually we would be right if that was the end of the story. Weakness is not good for anyone when they’re on their own. But Jesus promised that He would never leave us alone.

Weakness is a good thing when it makes us trust in God because we have nowhere else to turn. Suddenly we find that His arms are supporting us, and His arms are very strong. We have nothing to fear. He was there all the time, but we weren’t leaning our full weight into His arms, so He could carry us. Now that we feel helpless, powerless and weak, suddenly we discover, maybe for the first time, how to lean our weary souls on Him. What a gift!

Would you like to experience for yourself the reality of that promise Jesus made - Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest (Matt 11:28)? Maybe your time of weakness, helplessness and powerlessness has a purpose? Why not come to Him right now, wherever you are.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I do feel weary and burdened. I bring to You all the fear, anxiety and frustration of my helplessness. Thank You for Your incredible love that welcomes me into Your arms to rest all my weariness on to You. I trust You with my whole situation right now. In Your mighty name, Amen.