I Need A Hand!

Exodus 17:11-12 (New International Version, ©2010)
11 As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. 12 When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset.

Have you ever been in a position where you were overwhelmed in your responsibility or grew tired holding it together? We’ve all had jobs whether at home, work or church where we had our hands full and we needed an extra hand to help us out. There used to be an old colloquial saying, “Can you lend me a hand?” meaning you wanted someone to assist you because the task you were attempting required more hands than just yours.

It’s been said that when we get to heaven our elbows will not bend. We will not be able to feed ourselves. If you don’t believe me try putting your hand to your mouth without bending your elbow. In order to eat in heaven we will have to feed each other. If it’s like that in Heaven we better start down here on earth. (This is not in the bible just allegory) J

The only hand we are accustomed to giving today is the applause from a crowd of spectators commending our accomplishments without any assistance. If we are going to win against the enemy and build the Kingdom of God we are going to need some more hands.

When the Children of Israel escaped Egypt it was not long before they were attacked by an enemy called the Amalekites. These ex-slaves were not use to fighting so they needed supernatural assistance from God. Moses lifted his rod and his hands toward heaven; because that was the only help he knew to ask for. After all God just parted the Red Sea by lifting his hands so why not go for a repeat? When we lift our hands in praise and worship we are telling God you are the only help I know of that can get me out of this. I need a hand! As long as Moses held up his hands with the staff the Israelites were winning but when he got tired and let them down the Amalekites would win. Moses needed a hand because his arms were getting tired. Even that which looks easy can become a burden if you do it for a long time. Aaron and Hur came and held Moses hands up until the battle was won.

As mature Christians, we have to stop being spectators and sitting back applauding leaders whose arms are growing tired. Your leaders need your help to hold up their arms by lending them a hand. Praying for them, assisting them administratively, volunteering your service, and being obedient to what they ask you to do. When was the last time you offered your assistance to your pastor, coach, President or boss?

Another time Moses was wearing himself out sitting alone all day judging the cases of all the people from sun up to sundown. His father-in-law Jethro said, “You are going to wear yourself out working by yourself. This ain't good! The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone. Exodus 18:18

Jethro gave Moses a suggestion. You need some more Hands!

Exodus 18:21-22 (New International Version, ©2010)

21 But select capable men from all the people—men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. 22 Have them serve as judges for the people at all times, but have them bring every difficult case to you; the simple cases they can decide themselves. That will make your load lighter, because they will share it with you.

We need a hand! It’s time to come off the sideline and be active in your church, school, or community and tell your leader I’m here to lend a hand so you will not wear out.

Dear God,
Help me to lend a helping hand today. Give me a sensitivity to know when my leaders arms are growing tired and show me how to assist them so the battle can be fought and the victory be won. Use my gifts and abilities to bless the Kingdom by lending a hand today.

In Jesus Name,
Amen