I Can Do It Myself

I come before You this morning, Father, to hear what You have for me this day. May I listen attentively and follow Your leading. Amen.

One of the biggest struggles in following You, Lord, is getting out of the way. The “I can do it myself” mentality can so get us in trouble.

A portion of this morning’s Puritan prayer reads,

Thou hast taught me the necessity of a Mediator, a Messiah…
…and this by faith in thy beloved Son who teaches me
not to guide myself,
not to obey myself,
not to try to rule and conquer sin
but to cleave to the one who will do it all for me.

It is a fairly common occurrence at work (Kohl’s) to see a parent with a young child who insists on pushing their cart. On many occasions, the child can barely reach the handle; much less see anything that lays ahead – fixtures, displays, little old ladies, etc. The child proclaims emphatically (and quite often loudly) “I can do it myself!” But mom or dad must stay close by, must be ready to react at a moment’s notice or problems can quickly ensue.

I’m just glad that I never… who am I kidding?! It has been a fairly common occurrence, in my life, to see a parent – You – with a child – me – and I insist on (fill in the blank). I can’t see what lies ahead…but You do.

When it comes to my spiritual walk, I have had to learn my lesson. I cannot “guide” or “obey myself.” I am totally inept in my attempts “to rule and conquer sin.” My only hope of success is to “cleave to the one who will do it for me.” Only in You will I find success. You alone can bring me victory. My Lord and Savior guide me, help me to be obedient to You. Enable me to leave the ruling and conquering of sin to You. You are the Parent – I am Your child.

Sept 18^th, Sun, 6:35 am