“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” Galatians 6:2 (NIV).
Have you ever been at work when suddenly someone’s name comes to mind? What about in the middle of the night – something wakes you up and you start thinking about someone specific? Is there a certain cause or a particular nationality you find yourself drawn to?
I believe God gives each of us different friends, family members, nationalities of people, or causes that are near and dear to our heart. I also believe it’s our duty as Christ followers to take action when we’re being nudged about someone or a specific cause.
I used to feel guilty when a person would mention God had laid a mutual friend on her heart and she couldn’t stop thinking about the situation. I thought, What’s wrong with me that I’m not as moved in this situation? However, it was only after a second conversation where I was sharing about something heavy on my heart for someone else when my friend responded, “I guess that’s why God lays different people on each of our hearts. That’s how He covers them all.”
When I was getting my degree in Psychology, I sat next to a girl who had a desire to help the elderly. Her passion was to work in nursing homes and bring joy through various recreational means. I, on the other hand, have always been drawn to little children. Most of my employment experiences have been working with children, usually ones that have been abused or neglected.
I love that about my God. If both the girl I sat by in school and myself had a heart for children, then who would be taking care of and standing up for the elderly population, or mentally challenged individuals, or people who are homeless, imprisoned, suffer from disease, or addictions?
When God lays a specific friend on my heart to pray for and another person feels led to intercede for someone different, that’s a time to rejoice. It’s one way God allows the wounded, defenseless, and otherwise hurting people to be cared for by fellow Christ followers.
I’ve stopped feeling guilty if I’m not as moved by a particular cause, event, or situation. I know as long as I continue to listen to the Holy Spirit when He speaks to me, I’ll be in obedience and bringing the people God wants me to bring before Him at the time He wants them brought. And that, my friend, is a great feeling.
Have you ever had people come to mind at odd times or do you have a particular passion for a select group of individuals? Have you considered that just might be the Holy Spirit prompting you to pray or take action on their behalf?
Have you ever been the one feeling in need of some divine intervention? God loves us all so much, I can almost guarantee there’s someone out there praying for you at the time you need it most because that’s how much our God loves you. Most importantly, you don’t need to worry – He’s gotcha covered!
© 2013 Cheri Swalwell