Are you Helping or Hindering?

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren.” Romans 8:28-29

Pain. Suffering. Hurt. Heartache. Failure. Disappointment. Trials. These are the tools God uses to achieve His ultimate purpose in each person - to conform every believer to the likeness of Jesus Christ. Not distinguishing these tools as God’s instruments for change can result in misguided intervention in the life of a fellow believer.

How then do we know when to help and when to wait? God clearly calls us to minister to others in His name. We are not to become isolationists, refusing to become involved in the troubles of our brethren.

First, pray. Before you rush in to help, bring the matter specifically before the Father. Ask for His will to be done in the person’s life, not your will. Also ask that God deal with the root problem in the person’s life.

Second, wait for God’s timing. God may use you, but not until He has accomplished His loving plans. By waiting until He provides the opportunity, you are acknowledging God’s control over the situation.

Third, depend on the Holy Spirit. He will use you according to God’s will. Be sensitive to His prompting.

Help others, but make sure that you are not interfering with God’s loving purpose in the process.

“For it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.” Philippians 2:13