In one of my favourite TV shows, the medical director of a hospital, in an effort to cut through bureaucracy, asks his staff, “How can I help?” When I think about my relationship with God, I often get the question wrong, asking what God can do for me rather than what I can do for him. God, can you help me get this job? God, can you keep me healthy? or better yet, God, this is what I want, and this is how you can help me achieve it. Pretty presumptuous actually, but sadly, this is how it goes. I tend to forget my life is not about me, but about God and how I fit into his plan. I’ve found when I flip my perspective, God changes me and uses me for his greater purposes.
Years ago, while working in a school kitchen with some Kenyan women, I became aware of the need for clean water. Something inside asked, “What are you going to do about it?” I knew it was God prompting me to do something, but I had no experience with drilling wells, or raising money. What could I do? I tried to ignore it, but the feeling just wouldn’t go away, so I had a little chat with God. Admittedly, it was a rather boisterous discussion on my end. If he wanted me to do something about the water situation, he was going to have to provide some help, I certainly couldn’t do it on my own. The next Sunday, I was approached by a woman who heard about the need for a well and asked, “How can I help?” Another lady listening in also offered her help. Soon, six women were helping. The money was raised, a well was built and the Kenyan school children have clean drinking water.
“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work,” 2 Corinthians 9:8.
When God prompts you, be sure, he will provide everything necessary to complete the task. If you’re not sure what he wants you to do, as yourself, "Have I asked him, “How can I help?”"
