It's OK to feel vulnerable

When we follow God, especially through paths unknown, we are bound to have an inner sense of vulnerability. Contrary to what many have been taught, feelings of helplessness is not a lack of faith; they could, in fact, be a sign of progress in the journey of purpose.

Which is safer, staying in the "boat of comfort" or walking on the "waters of uncertainty"? Of course the former. "Walking on water" is utter foolishness to human reasoning. But sometimes, God's leading may require a step in the direction of vulnerability. Ask Peter. Agreed, he began to sink when he saw the boisterous waves, but then was rescued by the Lord who is always close by, always watching, ever present to help the helpless who call upon Him. Ask Peter again. He was not carried back to the boat and given a lesson on "safety first"; he and the Lord walked back on the same water that once threatened to destroy him. We may never learn lessons of faith if we do not go through seasons of vulnerability.

Whilst I am not advocating recklessness in our life decisions, it is certain that the call and leading of God will often times expose what we are really holding unto inside - God or something else. And it's OK to feel helpless when holding unto the invisible.

Why did Jesus pray as much as He did? Because He was helpless without God's help. Prayer and intimacy with God are divine remedies to human vulnerability. This is how missionaries of old spread the knowledge of God to the ends of the earth. This is how we must do it too.

Paul gloried in his weaknesses because they kept him dependent on God, and this dependency always made grace available for him. Thus the words of Christ, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness" (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Lord, I am gazing in the direction in which you are pointing, and all I can feel is utter helplessness in my self. My heart cries out to you, my Help. Guide me by Your Spirit. Make clear your leading and I will follow all the way, even when I feel vulnerable. Amen.