I’m a helper, most fulfilled when I can assist others in solving their problems, and reaching their goals.
But I cannot always help, even when I want to.
Ouch.
When a Helper Cannot Help
Sometimes I am not equipped to help, lacking wisdom, ability, or resources.
Sometimes the person doesn’t want my help.
Sometimes the person doesn’t think they need my help.
Sometimes the person wants a different type of help. Even, maybe, something I, in my wisdom, don’t think will help.
Watch Out For Pride
Watch out here for pride. Sometimes a problem is obvious to me. Sometimes a solution is obvious to me. But I may well be wrong. Maybe the person will accept a different type of help. Or maybe the person will accept help from a different person. Be humble. Be alert.
She Did What She Could
She has done what she could. (Mark 14:8)
We cannot fix everything, even with the talents and gifts God gave us. But we can do what we can.
For those who don’t want help, who may not think they need help, there are still things we can do.
Fundamentally, of course, we should pray.
We can keep the door open, just in case the person wants help later.
We can alert those who are charged to help, including, sometimes, the police.
We can also help those who help others, strengthening their ability to respond when people are ready for some kind of help.
And, with the Lord’s help, we can increase our skills.
Light at the End of the Tunnel
In the photo, there is light at the end of the tunnel. It’s 920 feet away from this end of the tunnel, and you may have to hunt for it. But it’s there. And that is true, also, for those in trouble. Do what you can, but, especially, pray.
