The Upper Room Daily Devotionals in Nashville, Tennessee, United States "Reaching Out" for Thursday, 15 December 2016 with Scripture: Philippians 4:10 In union with the Lord I greatly rejoice that now, after this long time, you have let your concern for me express itself again. Of course, you were concerned for me all along, but you had no opportunity to express it. 11 Not that I am saying this to call attention to any need of mine; since, as far as I am concerned, I have learned to be content regardless of circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in want, and I know what it is to have more than enough — in everything and in every way I have learned the secret of being full and being hungry, of having abundance and being in need. 13 I can do all things through him who gives me power.14 Nevertheless, it was good of you to share in my trouble. 15 And you Philippians yourselves know that in the early days of my work spreading the Good News, when I left Macedonia, not a single congregation shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving — only you. 16 Indeed, in Thessalonica when I needed it, you sent me aid twice. 17 I am not seeking the gift; rather, I am looking for what will increase the credit balance of your account. 18 I have been more than paid in full: I have been filled, since I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent — they are a fragrant aroma,[Philippians 4:18 Genesis 8:21; Exodus 29:18] an acceptable sacrifice, one that pleases God well. 19 Moreover, my God will fill every need of yours according to his glorious wealth, in union with the Messiah Yeshua. 20 And to God our Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
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God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.[Philippians 4:19 (NIV)]
After knee surgery, I had a difficult recovery. I live alone and quickly found that I simply could not manage on my own. I do not like to ask for help and worried that I would be imposing on others.
When I finally reached out for help, I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from my church, neighbors, and co-workers. All my worries were calmed. I felt only love.
I have never hesitated to ask God for help, and I know that often God sends people to help us. Scripture assures us that God will always meet our needs, and I have found this to be true. So why was it so hard for me to ask my friends directly when I needed them?
Scripture encourages us to be God’s hands and feet on earth in caring for one another. But this experience taught me that a caring relationship is a two-way street. Just as we are often so willing to help, we can also be open to receive from those willing to help us.
I’m fully recovered. But I have learned that when we struggle to make it on our own, God guides the people in our lives to help us. All we have to do is ask.
The Author: Ruby Truax (Ontario, Canada)
Thought for the Day: How can I accept God’s help?
Prayer: Thank you, heavenly Father, for always providing for our needs. Help us to realize that we can turn to the people close to us whom you have sent. Amen.
Prayer focus: THOSE WHO FIND IT HARD TO ASK FOR HELP
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After knee surgery, I had a difficult recovery. I live alone and quickly found that I simply could not manage on my own. I do not like to ask for help and worried that I would be imposing on others.
When I finally reached out for help, I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from my church, neighbors, and co-workers. All my worries were calmed. I felt only love.
I have never hesitated to ask God for help, and I know that often God sends people to help us. Scripture assures us that God will always meet our needs, and I have found this to be true. So why was it so hard for me to ask my friends directly when I needed them?
Scripture encourages us to be God’s hands and feet on earth in caring for one another. But this experience taught me that a caring relationship is a two-way street. Just as we are often so willing to help, we can also be open to receive from those willing to help us.
I’m fully recovered. But I have learned that when we struggle to make it on our own, God guides the people in our lives to help us. All we have to do is ask.
The Author: Ruby Truax (Ontario, Canada)
Thought for the Day: How can I accept God’s help?
Prayer: Thank you, heavenly Father, for always providing for our needs. Help us to realize that we can turn to the people close to us whom you have sent. Amen.
Prayer focus: THOSE WHO FIND IT HARD TO ASK FOR HELP
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