What Can I Do?

We have all asked this question at some point in our lives. My mom is notorious for asking it when she can tell I am sad or overwhelmed. I usually don't know how to respond. Most of the time, I ask this question when someone is in crisis. Depending on the nature or severity of the crisis, I tend to feel like a fast food cashier simply asking, "Can I take your order." It also amazes me that some people approach delicate situations with an attitude of, "What do you expect me to do about it."

Sometimes we can't do anything in a bad situation. We may be able to provide temporary relief or comfort. In life, however, we can do nothing without God. Too often, we find ourselves pulled in so many directions that we are unable to provide any comfort or words of advice when there is a struggle. But what if God is the One we are too busy to serve?

There are a number of Bible stories that reveal human nature within the plan of God. Today, I'm going with Moses. Credited as the savior of the Israelites from Egypt, Moses didn't begin his journey with much fervor. In fact, he argued with God as to whether or not he was the right man for the job. I've been there; how about you?

The short version of Exodus 3 and 4 shows us that Moses meets God at the burning bush. God calls him to go and speak to Pharaoh, assuring him that He would go with Moses and would deliver His people. Moses protested. Three more times during this exchange, God proves that His power will go with Moses to help him deliver the message. And two more times, Moses tries to turn down the job. If you have ever had a stand-off with kids at the dinner table, you can probably relate to God's frustration when Moses pleads (ahem, whines) to God about his inability to speak well.

God has already told him to go. He has given him the exact words to speak. He shows him signs and wonders. Now, Moses says,"But what can I do? I get tongue-tied when I speak."

Then the Lord asked Moses, “Who makes a person’s mouth? Who decides whether people speak or do not speak, hear or do not hear, see or do not see? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go! I will be with you as you speak, and I will instruct you in what to say.” (Exodus 4:11-12 NLT)

As the story goes, God finally relents to Moses' pleas and allows Aaron, Moses' brother, to be his spokesman. As great as Moses was, I have to wonder how much greater he could have been had he obeyed Gods initial call.

Sometimes our asking what we can do is merely to be polite. Sometimes, it's meant to mean more of a what do you expect me to do? Often, it turns into a fast food may I take your order situation where we try to put a fast food bandage on a much deeper problem. The wound returns, and we feel that we have failed others because we tried to solved the problem our own way.

This real question, though, is what do we do when God asks us to do something? Will our "What I can do" response be reluctant or eager? Pastor Chuck taught us that we can't do everything, but everyone can do something. I hope our, "What can I do" is always in earnest.

© Jill Cook and Unbroken & Undone Ministries.  All rights reserved.