Only a Call Away
by Malcolm Wood
We are in the process of arranging the installation of a `Panic Button` for my 91 year old mother who lives on her own. As a family we are trying to comply with her desire to remain in her own home, as long as she is able, by providing as much support and help as possible. Part of this is for her to have a button hung round her neck. If she should need help in an emergency, she can press it and it automatically puts a call through to a call centre. This centre is staffed 24/7, and they ascertain the level of help required and notify someone to come to her assistance.
The verse above reminds us that God is our ever present help in times of trouble. Wherever we are, whatever our circumstances, by His Spirit, He is with us and wants to help us. He is available 24/7 and is only a call away. No button, no telephone line and no wireless signal required!
Elsewhere the psalmist could testify to the fact that `The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help, He rescues them from all their troubles` (Psalm 34:17).
The Lord Himself promises to `rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name. When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue and honour them` (Psalm 91:14-15).
So often we don`t avail ourselves of the help, comfort and support that`s so readily available. We struggle on in our own strength to overcome the discomfort, pain, and fear which we encounter, when help is only a call away!
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry,
Everything to God in prayer.
(Joseph M Scriven 1855)
`Seek the Lord while you can find him. Call on him while he is near` (Isaiah 55:6).
Prayer: Dear Lord, please forgive me for not always calling on You when I should and struggling on in my own strength. Please help me to rely more on You, and bring everything to You in prayer. Amen.
Malcolm Wood and his wife Anna became part of the Ellel family as House Managers at Ellel Grange in 1990. Since then they have been involved with many aspects of the developing Ministry. From 2001 until 2015 they were Directors of Ellel Scotland where they hosted several International Schools and Operation Blairmore and helped pioneer the exciting Creative Inspiration Weeks. They have three sons.
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