“I can’t” is a phrase we discourage our kids from saying.
We want them to problem solve as much as possible, then ask for help, if needed.
It’s funny, but recently I had one of those “I can’t” moments myself. I was feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, and like a balloon about to bust.
I wish I could say that I handled it perfectly, but that wouldn’t be true.
It made me realize that I’m only human…and there’s only so much pressure a human can take.
But while “I can’t” take it all on my own shoulders, I know what I “can” do…and I so wish I could remember THIS when I’m feeling overburdened and buried under my stress:
- Talk to Jesus: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
Dare I open my mouth under pressure, it won’t be pretty. But, if I take it to Jesus, He will give me REST. He knows me. He knows that I need to be quiet and rest.
2. Share: “Help carry each other’s burdens. In this way you will follow Christ’s teachings.” Galatians 6:2
Why do we think we are the ONLY ones going through stuff? When I turned to a trusted friend during this time, I received wise counsel. She had gone through the same thing!
3. Trust: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
My little brain can only process so much. I realized that most of what I was feeling was anxiety over things I had NO control over. Why not give it to God who KNOWS what will happen tomorrow and IS in control?
I pray that the next time I reach my breaking point, I can remember that God never meant for me to live a stressed out, anxiety-filled, overwhelmed life.
As much as we try to hide it, those emotions seep out and people notice. That is NOT the abundant life we were created to have.
He has given me the power of prayer and the beauty of friends to help navigate life’s challenges, and I am so grateful for those little miracles.
