Listen to this devotion

I Can’t Do It by Myself

In the Word

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10a NIV).

Of the Word

As adults, we frequently take the attitude of that stubborn two-year-old who declares, “I can do it myself!” Why are we often reluctant to ask for help or advice? Do we think it will show we are getting too old, or too weak, or (heaven forbid) too stupid? We sometimes stumble along until finally, when all else fails, we admit we can’t do it alone.

God didn’t create us to go through life without help. He inspired the writer of Ecclesiastes to write, one can help the other. Our loving Father also gives us family and friends to love and care for us, to pick us up and give us support. Knowing God doesn’t want us to go it alone, let’s not be reluctant to ask for help — or, in turn, give help to someone else.

The LORD lifts up those who are bowed down… (Psalm 146:8b).

A Point to Ponder: Who do I know who may need a lift today?

Walking with my Lord

Lord, I admit I am helpless and can’t go through life alone. Thank You for the loved ones You send into my life. Thank You also for sending Jesus to pick me up out of sin and redeem me with His life. In His name I pray. Amen.


Mustard Seed: The Word: Wisdom for Living. Authors: Marcia Gomulka and Myrna Lou Meyer. 10/32 ©2015 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. Code: #40198

Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from ESV Bible® (The Holy Bible English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Sign up to receive Mustard Seed Devotions by email