Where Does My Help Come From?

I love to browse in bookstores, often with no intention of buying anything. As I walk down the aisle, a title captures my attention. I ignore the urge to pick it up and walk past it. A few steps ahead, I’m prompted to go back and take a look. After reading the back cover, I decide to purchase it. Amazing how the Holy Spirit works in the lives of believers! 

Usually when this happens, it’s because that book has something in it that will greatly benefit me. It could be on fasting, finances, marriage, or spiritual growth. There’s Christian books on every topic imaginable to broaden one’s knowledge. I prefer non-fiction books, but Francine Rivers, Karen Kingsbury and others have written fiction books that greatly touched my heart.  

We may acknowledge we need help but not be sure where to find it. The Bible is a great source of help, but sadly many choose not to adhere to its teachings. Instead, they attempt to do things on their own and become disappointment when life does not turn out as anticipated. I can attest my life before God was far different than with Him in it.

I was always willing to seek help when needed. Many self-help books I read in the past were not written by Christian writers. Did they help me? At the time I thought they did. No harm came to me from reading them. My journey of self-discovery was not always easy, and is still ongoing. And that’s okay, I’m a work in progress, God’s not done with me yet.  Today; I know where my help comes from. Just as King David penned in Psalm 121:2:  “My help comes from the Lord maker of heaven and earth.” And whatever else God brings my way is an added bonus. 

Many books and articles make me look deep within my soul, and force me to answer truthfully, the difficult and sometimes painful questions being asked. Some books include a questionnaire at the end of each chapter. It’s beneficial for me to write the answers in a journal. Not surprising, tears fall on the page as I write. What a relief to have my mind finally cleared of the debris that cluttered it for so long. My energy is renewed, with the knowledge that positive changes are taking place. After the book is finished, I’ll review my answers and evaluate what the book taught me. 

What will I do with this new found knowledge? Act upon it, or put the book on a shelf never to be thought of again. I believe when we know better, we do better. In my own life, this has proven to be true.   

My bookcase is filled with faith-filled books written by Christian men and women from all walks of life who wrote what God put on their hearts. Faith-filled magazine articles are kept in a binder for times I need inspiration and encouragement. The Bible says God is no respecter of persons; what He does for one, He will do for another. 

I don’t mind paying full price for a good book, but often times they’re found in the goodwill stores in my city. I’ve come to believe its God way of leading me to what I need at that time. When I find one of these treasures; I become excited about what’s inside, and hurry home so I can start reading it. 

The Christian articles and books I read provide a way for me to improve an already blessed life. These books and articles offer hope and encouragement and assist me in my daily Christian walk. I believe I’ll always be drawn to books and articles that promote growth in my mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing.  God gave me the love of reading, so I expect He’ll place all kind of reading material in my path to help me become the godly woman He’s destined me to be. Perhaps the Lord has something new in mind for me. If so, He’ll provide what I need to succeed, including wonderful books and articles to get me started. I have no idea what 2022 will bring but with God, all things are possible!  

Anne-Marie Madore is the author of God Said “I WILL” Promise Book. Visit her website at anne-mariemadore.ca. You’ll find a God Inspired Blog, and a Faith Library that includes a list of faith-filled books under various categories.