Help Me versus Make Me
As I read the Psalms in the Amplified Bible this week, a curious phrase jumped out. The writer says to God, “Make me understand the way of your precepts.”
Notice, he didn’t ask for assistance by saying, “Help me.” He was direct; he implored God to “Make me.”
The NIV reads, “Cause me to understand the way of your precepts.” That’s not as strong as “make me,” but it’s still much different than “help me.”
I’m dismayed to admit that while I often ask God to “help me,” I’ve never once implored the Almighty to “make me” do anything.
Saying, “help me” suggests I’m in charge and merely want God’s assistance. Saying, “make me” acknowledges his power and relinquishes control to him, letting him be in charge instead of me.
I think I’ll reform my prayers. Instead of asking God to help me, I’ll allow him to make me.
I expect a profound difference.
[Read through the Bible with us this year. Today’s reading is Psalms 119, and today’s post is on Psalm 119:27.]
Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
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