Helplessness

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Helplessness Author Unknown

In his first few years of coaching basketball for the University of North Carolina, many thought Dean Smith would be fired. His teams didn’t win enough games, and he couldn’t seem to turn things around. But in a recent interview, Smith told how his life back then had been changed when he read Catherine Marshall’s book, Beyond Ourselves—in particular, a chapter on “the power of helplessness.”

Catherine had become discouraged while writing a book about her first husband, Peter Marshall. But, reminded of John 15, she realized that the key to her success was to depend completely on God. As she welcomed her helplessness, she realized she was able to draw on His strength. “Crisis brings us face to face with our inadequacy, and our inadequacy in turn leads us to the inexhaustible sufficiency of God. This is the power of helplessness, a principle written into the fabric of life.”

Catherine actually began praying a “Prayer of Helplessness.” This was a confession to God of her utter dependence on Him. She found that He began to give her everything she needed. As she trusted in the Vine, she became a best-selling author. Dean Smith learned this principle, and became one of the most successful coaches in basketball history.

Today, do you feel helpless? Discouraged? Uncertain? Weak? Just start focusing on Jesus. Call on Him. Seek Him. Trust Him, and He will give you the power, wisdom, and ability you need. Ask Him to empower you, teach you, and provide for you. Remember that you are a branch, and He is the Vine. Apart from Him, you can do nothing!

Today's Prayer
Father, forgive me for trusting in my own strength. I commit these situations to You: _________. Thank You that I can trust in You. Thank You for meeting my needs. In Jesus’ name. Amen.