Helpless

We are helpless without the saving grace of Jesus Christ.

“While we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.”—Romans 5:6 NASB

What does it mean to be helpless? The Greek word used by Paul means not having any strength or abilities, feeling totally overwhelmed, powerless, and weak. This was our condition when Jesus came into the world. He came to save helpless people who couldn’t save themselves.

Sometimes we forget that we remain helpless. It’s easy to place faith in our own abilities, experiences, and resources. But the circumstances of life help us remember that everything can change in the blink of an eye.

We’re strongest when we completely depend upon God. As Paul wrote, “When I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10). We become strong when we realize we are helpless in ourselves and place our trust in God for everything, drawing on His power and unlimited resources.

God reached out to us in our helplessness even while we were sinners. When we were His enemies, Christ died for us. Now, because of Him, we can have peace with God and be empowered by His Spirit to live an abundant life.

Remember, “by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8). His “grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). And you “can do all things through Him” who strengthens you (Philippians 4:13).

Trust in God. Make Him the strength of your life.

Reflection Question: Compose a prayer thanking God for His abundant grace toward you.