Wow. I recently read this quote in a book titled Seeds, written by Sasha Vukelja, MD. It's the true story of how she and her mother escape from Yugoslavia to a new life in America.

I love all underdog stories. I have an underdog story. And if you have not yet overcome your personal heartaches, in Christ, you can and you will. It's a new year, full of promise, and the power of the God who is always thinking of us, whose desire for our freedom is greater than that of our own. 

That being said, no new years resolutions for me. Instead, I'll look back over 2009 and submit my inventory to the Divine Sifter of my heart. By His grace, this year I'll do less of what serves my selfish fears and more of what glorifies Him, which subsequently, frees me up to exhort, exalt, and comfort women who may be hanging on by a very thin thread.

I know they're out there. I know because I used to be one of them. And I know because God, who sees them (perhaps you), has placed a burning desire in my heart to give them (perhaps you), hope.

The more hope in Christ I give, the more hope in Christ I have.

"This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men" (and us women). (Titus 3:8 NKJV)

What can you do this week to remind someone that they're not alone and that there is hope? You may be thinking, "But I need someone to take the time to remind me." I understand. I've been there. And yet, God placed a woman in my life who always encouraged me show someone that they mattered even when I wasn't yet convinced that I did. I'm not talking about over extending yourself when you have nothing to give. It can be something simple, like phoning a friend to ask how she is with no mention of your own troubles. It sounds harsh, but trust me. You'll be sowing seeds today that will bear fruit tomorrow.  

"The only true currency in this bankrupt world is what you share with someone when you're uncool."
                                                   movie Almost Famous

I really liked that movie. Yeah, I know...rock bands and all the taboo topics that accompany them, but still, it's a story of a young man trying to discover where he "fits" in life. And we can all relate to that. (Plus the music is fabulous!)

When Lester says "uncool", he's really referring to personality types, but I've always used it to describe myself when I'm confused, overwhelmed, and hurting.

During those times, I find that reaching out to trustworthy people who understand what I am going through, positions me to experience the strength of God reaching out to help me up.

And it requires honesty, open-mindedness, and willingness. I know this is a tough one. And if you're wondering what it means when no one responds to you when you reach out, I personally believe that those are the times when God wants to establish a foundation of undivided attention.

The best mentor (sponsor) I've known, instructed me to hit my knees and pray before I called for her counsel...wise woman. She got me in the habit of acknowledging the Source of my help to guard against me trying to control the channel through which my help would arrive. (God is the source and the channels frequently change.)

I encourage you to find someone who has been where you are now and can support you as you heal and heal and heal. (It's a process.) Being there for someone when they're uncool was God's idea. It's the reason this website was created.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God (2 Corinthians 3:3-4).

Are you willing to ask for help when your uncool? Are you willing to be of service to someone in need, even as you wait for your needs to be met?

That is actually painted on the wall of my breakfast nook and I never tire of it. Lewis Carroll wrote the children's classic Alice in Wonderland. Here are two of my favs:

"There is no use in trying," said Alice, "One cannot believe impossible things."

"I dare say you haven't had much practice," said the Queen. "When I was your age, I always did if for half an hour a day. Why, sometimes I've believed in as many as six impossible things before breakfast."

Alice: "...I simply must get through."

Doorknob: "Sorry, you're too big. Simply impassible."

Alice: "You mean impossible?"

Doorknob: "No, impassible. Nothings impossible."

Best for last:

Mark 9:22-24 NIV

"'...But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us."
"If you can?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes." Immediately the boys father exclaimed, "I do believe, help me overcome my unbelief."

I am one of those people who really believe that anything can happen through the strength of Christ. And I am convinced that I would not be one of those people if I had been too prideful to fall on my knees and pray, "I believe, help me overcome my unbelief."

It's never too late to ask for help believing that you can and will be helped and therefore healed.

What do you face that appears impossible? Are you willing to believe that God will bring you further than your current circumstances?