Good at the Giving, Bad at the Receiving
Written by Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”
Our American society emphasizes independence over just about anything else. This value is not reasonable or even viable. Not even one of us can do everything in our limited lives. Yet, we treat the idea of asking for help as a failure. Help is a gift, not just for the one receiving support but also for the one providing support.
Jennifer King Lindley’s article “The Shame-Free Guide to Asking for Help” quotes clinical social worker Elisabeth LaMotte, “Helping someone lights up the same reward areas of the brain that ping when we eat chocolate or have sex. So when you ask your neighbor to feed your cat, maybe you’re doing them the favor.” Think about the feeling you get when you help someone and make a real difference. Are you going to deny someone the gift of making a positive difference in your life?
It is up to you to bring the world around you a Christ-like humility. Your humility becomes a superpower we call vulnerability. Humility and openness allow others to see “the authentic you.” Being authentic requires you to be honest with yourself first, then honest with others. God will place others in your path for you to serve but will also empower others for you to be served. As a person of faith, it is your calling to model service but also humble acceptance of the gifts and care of others.
Today, prayerfully seek a meaningful way to provide service to those in need. Then, within the same prayer, ask God to give you the wisdom and humility to find the vulnerability necessary to receive care. No matter how rich, strong, or healthy you are, there is something you need that can be given to you. Then, ask God to open your heart to humility, so you can accept what God is offering. God’s divine offering will make you a more substantial, loving, and faithful person.
