Psalm 142:6: “Listen to my cry, for I am in desperate need; rescue me from those who pursue me, for they are too strong for me.” (NIV)

Thought: . . . many of us have problems that push us to the point of desperation

Reflection: Identify one problem in your life that seems overwhelming and ask for prayer.

Thousands of years ago there was another woman who was just desperate enough to get help. She had been bleeding for 12 years and no one could help her. But when Jesus came to her neighborhood, she was ready to try anything. I imagine she was embarrassed, and weakened because of her bleeding. She must have gathered every ounce of energy and courage to get to Jesus.

The Bible tells us there were crowds following Jesus that day. Yet somehow, this determined woman navigated her way through the masses to touch the cloak of Jesus, and the Bible tells us she was healed immediately.

In spite of all those people who must have been pressing up against Jesus, He knew someone had reached out and touched Him. As He stopped, the people stumbled into each other, turning their heads to determine what happened. In a gentle voice, Jesus asked, “Who touched me?”

After everyone denied it was them, the woman came trembling before Him. She told Jesus and the assembled crowd why she had touched Jesus and how He had healed her. Jesus then said to the woman, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.”

Desperation causes people to do different things. Some people make wrong choices, believing their backs are against a wall. Some people go into hiding, hoping a problem will go away.

Yet others are desperate enough to do something risky and full of humility to get help. Sometimes God uses other people to help us, and sometimes He is the only One who has the answers.

In the difficult times we face, many of us have problems that push us to the point of desperation. It is my prayer that instead of desperation defeating you, it motivates you to seek help. Whether God Himself provides your deliverance, or He uses someone else, trust He already has a plan to help.

Power Verse: Psalm 27:14: “Wait for the LORD; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD.” (NAS)

Prayer: Dear Lord God in heaven, only You know how desperate I feel right now. Only You see the troubles that weigh me down. Only You know my insecurities and fears. Only You know the sin I have committed and need forgiveness for. I confess that I don’t have the strength or wisdom to find the answer to all my doubts and questions. However, I trust that You are already planning my deliverance. I trust in Your perfect timing. I trust in Your word that promises me You will never leave me. Please show me what to do next, and direct me to the help, support, and guidance I need to move forward. I pray and give thanks in the name of the one who always consulted You first, Jesus’ the Christ, Amen.

Where will you spend eternity?