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Key Bible Verses: Who is adequate for such a task as this? … It is not that we think we can do anything of lasting value by ourselves (2 Corinthians 2:16; 3:5, NLT). Bonus Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:26–31

Robert came to see me to discuss handling the many personal and professional problems confronting him. "Up till now," he said, "I've been able to take life in stride. But now I've been given more responsibilities at work and one of my sons is in real trouble.

"I really work at developing a positive attitude. I stand before the mirror when I shave in the morning and say, 'Robert, you can do it; you've got what it takes, so believe in yourself. You've been a skyrocketing success at work and a model father. You can win, Tiger, you can win!' But by the end of the day, I realize that the pep talk didn't work. I really fear messing up at work, and my boy has me on the ropes. For the first time in my life, I really feel inadequate."

"Perhaps you are inadequate," I said quietly.

Robert looked like I'd just punched him in the stomach. "What do you mean? I came to see you to get a lift, not have my worst fear confirmed. I needed you to cheer me up, not put me down!"

At the very least, I had Robert's attention. [continued 11/3]

—Lloyd Ogilvie in Facing the Future Without Fear

Adapted from Facing the Future Without Fear (Servant, 1999, 2002) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Dear Father, teach me to hand off my worries to You, realizing that I'm secure in Your care.

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