Recently my dear daughter Jo-Ann came up to me at church. She arrived before I did and when I entered with  my winter coat, my Bible, a container of water, and my offering, with a loving smile said, “Papa, can I help you?” To which I replied, “Honey, I need all the help I can get!” We both laughed and she helped me.

I’ve thought of that a lot. I really did need help that Sunday. But friends, beyond just a hand with my coat and water, I need help. I am not self-sufficient. Please don’t misunderstand. There are some things that we must do ourselves. But there are many things with which you and I need help.

Think of what the Lord Jesus told us in Hebrews 13:5-6. “I will never leave you, nor forsake you. So that we may boldly say, the Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me”

The word “helper” is boethos (bo-ay-THOS) and means “One who gives assistance especially seen in hardship and distress.” It is the Lord Who gives this wonderful assistance.

Think of His invitation. “For we have not an High Priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all point tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:15-16).

There we go. “Grace to help in time of need.” I am in need constantly, every day. How about you?