Do you ever wonder what others expect from a counselor? Why is it that so many seem to flock to particular individuals in their time of need? I ask this, because it seems, that others tend to lay their burdens at my feet, always expecting a pick me up, an encouraging word, a hug, or a witty comeback. But still, I do not know why.
There are times that I wonder what it is about some people that they are capable of finding strength and pressing through their demons, whereas others are constantly plagued and fall deeper into the bowels of despair that their circumstances allot for. Knowing what I do now, as opposed to years ago, I surmise that that strength comes from our faith in God—or at least mine does. Those of us strong enough latch onto the positive things in life and eventually submit our lives to Christ. In return, the struggles become less burdening than we once believed. And for those who choose to hoe the road alone, they are continuously knocked down by the minions of evil (wondering why me), so far down in fact, they can no longer stand on their own two feet or stay afloat long enough to swim to shore.
Unfortunately, sometimes they are so far gone—no one can hear the pleas for help in order to throw them a life jacket. God is awesome in that respect—if we pay attention—of allowing some of us the honor of being a go between to do His bidding. Still—I do wonder how it is that He hand selects us to perform these tasks. How is it that He decides we are worthy of His gifts? I look at myself sometimes and wonder what is it about myself that allows others to gravitate to me and pour out their hearts to me, to tell me their story. The only thing that I can conclude is that in order for others to pour out their hearts, the counselor must have a good heart, a strong conviction, a moral compass, and the ability to listen to others. In doing so, we act as a guiding light for others, where Christ has been that for us.
Still I wonder how is it that some of us garner His attention so that He provides us the gifts needed to do His will. These things I surmise I will never understand, but so long as He gives me the wisdom and the ability, I will continue to do His will, even when as a mere human, I become tired and fail. And that is why we put ourselves out there, I suppose.
For some of us, there is no answer as to why; it just is what it is. Our actions define us. We would not be complete if we did not extend ourselves to others in their time of need. There was a time when I sought to help others, forcing myself upon them, because I was so dependent on them needing me. I no longer find myself doing that. I no longer need to help others in order to feel as though I am alive. If I help them, it is because they sought my advice. And, in that moment, the blessings of God come through so much clearer than I could ever articulate on my own.
I feel honored and blessed to be able to do God’s will and help others. But even though we may counsel others, we still need a counselor ourselves. Sometimes that may come in the physical realm, but other times, the spiritual. I find that there are many who struggle with putting others before themselves. It is difficult to deny oneself of being selfish. I look back upon all the demons in my life and am extremely thankful that God sent someone to minister to me, to guide me, and to pull me from the bowels of despair when the darkness invaded my life. And I am thankful that He took an interest in me and felt the need to breathe life back into these bones. I am thankful I have been afforded the opportunity to give back to others that which has been so graciously given to me.
I wonder what talents you have. What gifts need to be cultivated? But since fear rules the roost, you fail to press in and press forward in the body of Christ. These things I cannot answer for you. That is the conversation that you are to have with someone of much higher authority than I. However, I do believe if your faith is strong and you have complete submission to God, that which you seek, ye shall find. Even still, if the answers are not provided as quickly as you like, do not fear. God’s plans do not typically align with our schedules; they align with His. Most times, His answer will be provided at the most inopportune time, and it is in this understanding that we become pliable to His will.
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