The whole trouble is that we won't let God help us.— ~ George MacDonald
“When we put our faith and trust in God, we’ve done the one thing that a human can do to accomplish superhuman things. We have reached past human strength and knowledge. We’ve touched infinite strength and infinite knowledge.
The assistance of God is an essential need for everyone. While we believe that God is for all, there appears to be an uneven distribution of His help—some seem to receive it, while others do not. During a recent prayer, the name "Eli-Ezer" resonated with me. Traditionally associated with male Israelites, this name also represents the Holy Spirit, the ultimate Helper.
In today’s digital age, we often turn to platforms like Google or Siri for assistance. However, we are on the brink of a new era where advanced AI programs may surpass these tools, signaling a shift in how we seek help. Yet, these forms of aid remain limited to human understanding, unlike the boundless wisdom of divine assistance.
The act of seeking help is universal, but societal norms, particularly those directed toward men, have created barriers. Asking for help is sometimes perceived as a sign of weakness or something exclusive to women. Breaking these stereotypes and embracing a more inclusive mindset is essential, especially for men who struggle silently under these cultural pressures.
The movie The Pursuit of Happyness underscores this truth with a poignant anecdote. Christopher Gardner recalls a story of a drowning man who rejected multiple offers of rescue, believing God would save him. After his tragic death, he questioned God in Heaven, only to hear, “I sent you two boats, you dummy!”
This humorous yet profound tale highlights the importance of recognizing help when it is offered, even when it comes in unexpected forms.
Many men pray about issues that require practical solutions, such as counseling or therapy, yet societal pressures prevent them from seeking the necessary assistance. Some matters indeed require prayer, but others demand proactive steps. God often guides us to His help in ways that require us to act.
In John 5:1-13, Jesus poses a seemingly redundant question to a man who had been suffering by the pool for decades: “Do you want to be healed?”
This question challenges the man’s willingness to accept help. It mirrors our own hesitance, as we sometimes fail to recognize the assistance that stands before us, blinded by pride or misconceptions.
The name Eliezer, meaning "God is my help," combines "El" (might, strength, power) with "Ezer" (help, to make easier). This name assures us of God’s readiness to assist us in times of trouble (Psalm 46). John 14:26 introduces the Holy Spirit as the Helper, extending God’s aid beyond prayer to include guidance, protection, relationships, opportunities, and interventions in various forms.
Despite God’s willingness, we can reject or overlook His help due to pride, misunderstandings, or an inability to see His hand in our lives. The key lies in humility and openness—asking for God’s assistance boldly and remaining receptive to its diverse manifestations. The question remains: Are you able to recognize God’s help in your current circumstances?