Tough

I am a fix-it girl. That isn’t always a good thing, especially when it is not my place to fix it.

Several times over the years, I’ve tried to help a friend fix an ongoing situation. However, each time I helped out, the fix didn’t last very long. Since there was no change in behavior, the situation progressively got worse. A couple of months ago, things spiraled downward and my friend was…well, in a pickle.

As much as I wanted to jump in and take care of things, for the first time, I sensed I needed to keep my hands off and my mouth shut. This was a consequence. It was not my problem to fix. It was not my responsibility to make things easier.

And because I care so deeply, I have been absolutely miserable.

I have quietly carried the burden emotionally.

I’ve been fearful.

I’ve been angry.

I have prayed without ceasing.

I’ve searched the Word for answers, understanding, and relief.

I’ve wrestled with the Lord; if He would have just let me fix it to start off with, it would have surely been resolved by now. Yet the truth is, if I had meddled, if I had ignored the Still Small Voice, not only would I have probably made the situation worse, my friend would not see the Lord working this out for her good.

I now realize…

Not all battles are mine to fight.

Not all issues are mine to fix.

It’s not my responsibility to change someone’s behavior.

Every action – or failure to act - has a consequence.

Tough love is tough.

Romans 8:28 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.