Crutch

I was recently climbing down from the backhoe at the ranch. I got down, but it felt as if my knee stayed behind. Did I ever tweak it! I couldn’t move or even sleep without sharp, stabbing pain. And walking, fugedaboudit! I was lucky and did not need surgery, but had to wear a brace for three weeks. People asked what happened, and I thought about telling a better version of the event.

“I was at the skateboard park and lost it on the half pipe.”

It sounded so much better than I’m getting older and need to be more careful, but God doesn’t want us to lie, so there you go.

I became acutely aware of the simple things I take for granted everyday. I was definitely lame. According to the dictionary, lame is defined as crippled and ineffectual. That was me for certain. I was grateful that I did not have to use a crutch, a device used by lame people as an aid in walking. It is also defined as any prop or support.

Which reminded me of what someone once said when I told them I read my Bible everyday. “The Bible is a crutch used by weak people.” At first glance, I was blown away that they believed this and meant it as an insult. Then, the absolute, overwhelming truth in their statement became crystal clear. I am spiritually lame, in my own power, and I welcome the support of God through His Word, which help to keep me upright and able to walk in His ways. I find the Bible exciting, and cannot wait to see what God will show me next. It might be a verse I’ve read before, but in whatever my current situation may be, it just pops and comes alive, and I think, “Wow, when did God sneak that in there? I don’t remember that!”

I am grateful that the Holy Spirit enlightens me so I know I am not smart enough, nor strong enough to do life on my own. I tried for years and failed miserably. I need Jesus, who is the Living Word!

A smart person is one who knows they need help, and are not too proud to ask for it. Work smarter, not harder.

When you buy the latest smart phone, the manufacturer provides you with a users manual. God, as our manufacturer, does the same for us. It is the Bible. Basic Instruction Book for Living Everyday.

“The whole Bible was given to us by inspiration from God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wring in our lives; it straightens us out and helps us do what is right. It is God’s way of making us well prepared at every point, fully equipped to do good to everyone.” (2 Tim. 3:16-17 [TLB])

And we can call tech support any time, its called prayer! “You draw near to those who call out to you, listening ever closely, especially when their hearts are true.” (Ps. 145:18 [TPT])

I am thrilled that I have something to lean on, to get the help I need. I lean on the Word while researching for the blogs I post. I look forward to reading the Bible, it is what sustains me, excites me, and gets me out of bed in the morning.

Why am I excited and can’t seem to get enough of the Bible? Two reasons. Reason one: It works. I have seen it provide me with what I need when I need it, time and time again. Reason two: I asked for it. “You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.” (John 14:14 [NIV])

In the footnote for this verse it states, “Not simply prayer that mentions Jesus’ name, but prayer in accordance with all that the person who bears that name is. It is prayer aimed at carrying forward the work Jesus did—prayer that he himself will answer.”

“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” (Jer. 33:3 [NIV])

“If you wait at Wisdom’s doorway, longing to hear a word for each day, joy will break forth within you as you listen for what I’ll say.” (Prov. 8:34 [TPT])

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to go pickup my skateboard from the repair shop.

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