Relationship PuzzlesSample

Can everyone please tell me what I should do about this?

When we are in the middle of solving a relationship puzzle, it is tempting to run to every friend we know for feedback and support. It is normal to need this support, but as I mature, I am realizing that it usually does not help. “All things are permitted, but not all things are of benefit. All things are permitted, but not all things build people up.” 1 Cor 10:23 (NASB)   

1. When you talk to others for support, it can easily turn into gossip. In a small community, like our deaf community, gossip can separate close friends. I never want to be a person who separates other friends. (Proverbs 16:28) 
2. God can help me, teach me, and fight for me better than people can. Sometimes it is better for me to be still and know that He is God. (Psalm 46:10)

In John 5, there is a story about a man who could not walk for 38 years, a long time! I know some of my wounds have been keeping me “paralyzed” for a long time too. Jesus asked the man, “Do you want to be healed?” The man answered Him, “Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, and while I am going another step down before me.” 

Wow, I really understand how that man feels. He is waiting and waiting for someone to help him to be healed. Sometimes our friends can carry us to Jesus, like the story of the friends who lowered their paralyzed friend down through the roof to get to Jesus. (Luke 5:17-20) What beautiful friends! But other times, like this man in the healing at the pool, NO ONE ever comes to help him. When he does try to get to the healing water, someone else gets there first. He is always left behind and forgotten. I know that feeling too!

But Jesus did not mention all the other people. He did NOT tell the man,” I am so sorry that no one helps you. Poor you!” Jesus says, “Get up, take up your bed, and walk.” Wait. What? All I need is Jesus and I can still be healed! I will not miss out on my healing because of my weakness, or because I am alone, or because I have been this way so long that I have lost all hope.

Response: 

1. What are you hoping will help you instead of Jesus? 
2. What is Jesus telling you to do now so you can...

• Get up (Stop feeling sorry for yourself?)
• Take up your bed (Let go of the past?)
• Walk (How can you move on?)