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LIFE WITHOUT HANDLES
Trusting in and Thanking the Helper

A Commentary by Constance Vanides

It all started when I was unloading my grocery bags. I returned home from shopping at a store I usually don't go to. Rather than it being a fun "shopping spree", I was more tired than delighted with purchases made in a store that did not include handles on their paper bags! A small thing perhaps, but it got me to thinking...

"I need all the help I can get!" seems to be my recurring expression lately. My life is filled with things that make me tired. If only I could have a handle on and help with everything! But then, maybe I already have that provision in my life, and I don't even realize it!

I head for solace in the Book of Psalms:

    "Have mercy on me, O LORD, for I am weak;
    O LORD, heal me,
    For my bones are troubled."
    (Psalm 6:2)

That's good for a starter. How about this one?
    "The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer;
    My God, my strength, in whom I will trust;
    My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold."
    (Psalm 18:2)

    "It is God who arms me with strength,
    And makes my way perfect."
    (Psalm 18:32)

My faith is building up with that encouragement.
    "The LORD is my light and my salvation;
    Whom shall I fear?
    The LORD is the strength of my life;
    Of whom shall I be afraid?"
    (Psalm 27:1)

Now I can start blessing and praising the LORD.
    "The LORD is my strength and my shield;
    My heart trusted in Him, and I am helped."
    (Psalm 28:7)

    I will extol You, O LORD, for You have lifted me up,
    and have not let my foes rejoice over me.
    (Psalm 30:1)

How often do I need to be told who it is that provides the "handles" for carrying all my burdens? A person's remark, "Hang in there!" when I'm going through uncontrollable times, reminds me that I am not in charge of my life. Jesus is there for me to reach out to and hang onto. I can even repent of ignoring His call to me, asking His mercy to reign, relinquishing all to Him.

    "Behold, the LORD's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save..." (Isaiah 59:1)

What more do I need? Paper bags with handles? I think not. They are the least of my worries! All I really need to do is give thanks...with a grateful heart.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERY DAY!

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