I don’t crater often. I’m a strong, content single woman. But sometimes something happens. Then another challenge arises. And then another, and pretty soon I’m teetering on the edge of destruction. One little thing drifts to the top and triggers what I call a melt-down moment – tears, a sense of frustration, and a feeling of helplessness.
I had a moment today. My house needs cleaning, my dryer isn’t working correctly, the front porch light died, my car is emitting a burning rubber smell, and then the handle of my toilet broke. In the grand scheme of things, a cracked commode lever is no big deal, but it was the crowning piece of my “overwhelmed” tower. I pulled up my boot straps, traipsed to Lowe’s and stood in the aisle of a million possible replacements. Really? Do we need that many choices?
I could feel it coming. Through watery eyes, I questioned, “Lord, why can’t I have some support instead of being responsible for everything?” I had to make a decision so I plucked a shiny silver handle from the shelf and headed to the check-out counter.
At home, I stood over the toilet attempting to unscrew the bolt. It wouldn’t budge. Then it happened. Melt-down moment. Tears ran down my face as I wished I had someone who could repair it for me. Anyone but me! I cried out, “God, since you’re my husband, you have to fix the toilet.” Something gave. Did the nut just move? It did. I quickly replaced the broken part and regained my sense of pride and freedom. Who knew God does toilets?
Do you ever have melt-down moments where you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and completely alone? Maybe you’re tired of making all the decisions yourself or perhaps ill-equipped to solve a problem. Be encouraged from two of my favorite verses:
Philippians 4:19 – And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Deuteronomy 31:8 – The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.
No matter what looms over you during your day, take heart in the fact that God encircles you with His presence. He promises to rush to your aid if you call upon Him. I’ve discovered that God repairs dryers, makes car noises disappear and allows money to magically appear in my bank account. So, in the midst of your next melt-down moment remember God’s promises and beckon your heavenly husband to the rescue. Now if I could only figure out how to get Him to kill spiders and take the trash to the curb on Tuesdays.
About Shelley Pulliam
Howdy! (A girl from Oklahoma has to use this as her greeting) I’m Shelley Pulliam, executive director of Arise Ministries and former teacher of hormone-filled 8th graders. But my real claim to fame rests in my award as second grade spelling bee champ and my recent gun-handling skills as I train to competition shoot. It helps me be on guard when Satan comes knocking. I’m a voracious reader and can frequently be found at the theater enjoying movie marathons where my record stands at six in one day. I’m a single, never married, who loves to pour into children at every opportunity. Let me know if you have any for sale. You can connect with me on social media. https://www.instagram.com/shelleypulliam/