Don’t go at it alone.
It could be a difficult decision, an unexpected illness, relationship issues or a personal problem. I have been learning throughout my recovery to surround myself with people of faith instead of dealing with it alone.
I’m not sure if it’s Western culture, pride or shame that tells us we have to tackle life’s challenges, come up with the best solutions and wiggle ourselves out of a bind all by ourselves. Regardless of where these messages originate, there is wisdom in keeping ourselves surrounded by sound counselors, trusted advisors, willing helpers and faithful prayer warriors. We don’t have to go at “it” alone.
I would have died in the hospital without the loving care and support of my husband, our family and friends. I gave myself permission to be vulnerable enough to let the right people in, to share with them my need and accept their help. When unable to pray and read the Bible for myself, I asked a lovely kind spirited Hospital porter Valentina, to read her devotional to me and even pray with me. Oh what a blessing she became! I asked my husband, Shawn, to do things for me that a partner should not have to do so soon, if ever. Now we are closer for it. I was vulnerable with church members, and my church is stronger for it. Because what happened to me, was not just about me.
Though no longer bed bound, and back up on my feet, today I return to this lesson learned during the worst moment of my life: surround myself with people of faith. Facing difficult decisions and challenging circumstances are a part of life, but the good news is, we don’t have to handle “it” alone.
Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken. Ecclesiastes 4:9–12 (NLT)
