I have been very thankful for the ways that God has answered my prayers this past year. The biggest answer to prayer is the fact that I am finally in Japan!
Recently, however, my most frequent prayer has become quick and simple: “God, help me.”
When I feel overwhelmed with the list of things I need to get done: God, help me.
When I’m trudging through the snow and wonder how I will be able to survive living in a snow globe: God, help me.
When I have to visit the ward office (again) and I’m not quite sure if I’ll be able to clearly explain why I’m there or what I need: God, help me.
When I have another event to attend and zero social energy left: God, help me.
When I can’t find the important paper I need to turn in that I know that I put in a safe place…somewhere: God, help me.
When I’m exhausted and frustrated and don’t know what to do: God, help me.
At this point it has become an almost constant refrain. In circumstances where I’m unsure of what to do or when I know that my own strength is lacking or even when I’m not sure what I’m feeling — it’s a cry for help in the midst of chaos to the all-powerful God who knows my circumstances, who knows my heart, and who has the ability to help.
It feels similar to the Israelites who cried out to God while actively fighting in battle:
“They received help against these enemies because they cried out to God in battle, and the Hagrites and all their allies were handed over to them.” (1 Chronicles 5:20).
Obviously while fighting they didn’t have the luxury of taking a timeout so they could find a quiet place to sit down to pray. In the disorder and panic of the fight they reached out to God for help, and he answered.
And God has faithfully answered my cries for help in the midst of the turmoil of my life as well. He has shown up for me in big ways to answer my short, simple prayers for help. When my world feels chaotic, it is such a comfort to know God is there, that he hears my prayer for his help, and he answers!
By an OMF missionary
