Compassionate Love: Displaying compassion for those who struggle with mental illness (c) 2017 Nancy Virden, Always The Fight Ministries
Natural disasters have a way of raising anxiety levels. There is a good reason for that because we want safety and normalcy, and we mourn when people are hurt. Hurricanes, earthquakes, and wildfires are unpredictable too. Generally, we do not enjoy uncertainty when so much is at stake.
A son inherits a business
Many years ago, a dad died. Suddenly, his young son had to take over the family business and responsibilities. He was feeling scared and inadequate, so he said to God, “I can’t do it without you.”
He was successful for ten years before a powerful and influential enemy tried to take over the business and steal everything the son owned. Again the young man said, “God, I can’t do this without you,” and the severe opposition soon ceased.
For twenty years, everything continued well. A second conniving competitor emerged, attempting to force a merger between his and the son’s businesses. Commerce and security were threatened.
This time the son panicked and turned to a third competitor for help. “I can’t do this without you.,” he said. By partnering with a less threatening enemy, he gave up his freedom. Their scheme worked, only now he was bound to someone who wanted to fight him for everything.
A wise man of God came to him and said, “You did it now! You lost your chance to be clear of this kind of trouble. From now on you will struggle to keep everything you have!”
Frustrated, the son used his influence to cause the wise man of God to lose his job. His attitude soured under pressure from the combative business arrangement. He became mean and merciless toward people who depended on him.
Eventually, a potentially fatal disease scared him. He said to his doctors, “I can’t do this without you!” Soon after, he died.
Who was this man?
This man’s name was Asa. Ruling ancient Judah was the family business. Asa and his dad were royals, serving as kings. The last six of forty-one years in charge of the nation were nothing but conflict.
Competitors and enemies were other kings trying to conquer his land and people. When Asa humbly remembered that he was but a human, and trusted in God’s power, Judah flourished. Both he and his people paid a great price for his proud self-reliance.
Anxiety is normal in the face of recent disasters and rumors of war. It is impossible to control external events or other people. Choosing to depend on the Highest Power takes a load off our backs and minds.
I know the future is uncertain and feel anxiety rising. How much anxiety interferes with my functioning and peace is determined each day I choose to confess as Asa once did, “God, I can’t do this without you.”
And mean it.
Today’s Helpful Word
Ephesians 3 (NCV)
“With God’s power working in us, God can do much, much more than anything we can ask or imagine. To him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus for all time, forever and ever. Amen.“
*********COMMENTS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME.
NOTE: I am not a doctor or mental health professional. I speak only from personal experiences with and observations of mental illness. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental health care.
If you are struggling emotionally today or feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Hope and help is yours.
Always the Fight 
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