Matthew 7:7 – Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. (NIV)

When I was small, my parents raised us to keep our mouths closed and our ears open. Considering the fact that I was a chatterbox, I never really grasped this; in fact, I never understood it. I was also raised not to ask for help. I guess that this was the way that they were raised. As I grew older, this proved to be the wrong thing for me. I desperately needed to ask for help. The reasons for this are long and not very pretty. Being molested as a child, alcoholism, and searching for affection proved to be my downfall. We did go to church as a family on Sunday, but I never got to know Jesus until decades later.

I have learned that secrets keep you sick, but prayer works. It's like the old saying, "A problem shared is a problem halved." I have also learned that problems shared with a loving friend can be a wonderful release from our burdens. Even better is a loving friend who prays for you and with you.

Matthew 18:20 – For where two or three come together in my name, there I am with them. (NIV)

Who could ask for more than for Jesus to be among us when we pray for a solution and guidance? Yet, this does not happen for many people because they refuse to ask for help.

I know now that during my trials, Jesus was in the midst of them with me. He may have been crying, but He was with me. All we have to do is look at the cross and see what Jesus went through. As I consider my life now, whatever I went through, it was not, and is still not as bad as what Jesus went through. He is my rock and my salvation.

Since becoming a Christian, I have friends who care about me and listen when I am hurting. I have a pastor and a church family who surround me with love, and I am no longer alone. I am at peace amongst them, and I know that Jesus is with us, praying to God our Father for us. I know that the Holy Spirit fills us and brings us that peace which passes all understanding. If I share my trials with others, I may be able to help them. If they see me succeed, they can, too.

If you're having problems, seek help. Jesus will lead you to it. Ask someone close to you for prayer. It really is miraculous.

God be praised!

Prayer: Lord our God, please encourage us to seek help through Your guidance. You are the great provider. You know what we need before we ask. Help us, Lord, to remember that You are always with us, waiting for us to ask You for the help that we need. Amen.

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About the author:

Marilyn Clark <marilynjclark1947@gmail.com>
Waterdown, Ontario, Canada
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