The Bookcase Method: Overcoming the Overwhelming
“Then a poor widow came and dropped in two small coins. Jesus called his disciples to him and said, ‘I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.’” Mark 12:42-44 (NLT)
We loved our house, but it was time to move.
My heart burst with excitement when I thought about how our new house would allow more opportunities to open our home to others and share God’s love through hospitality.
But at the height of my daydreams about what was to come, the reality of what was now brought everything crashing down.
What had been my sanctuary from the many stresses of life became an anxiety-ridden, overwhelming pressure point as the enormity of packing a whole house took control. Where should I even begin? The kitchen? Kids’ bedrooms? What do we need access to right away?
My head was spinning with questions when I looked up and noticed our bookcase. Why not start there? So, one by one, I took the books off the shelves and added them to a box until all had been packed away. I felt a sense of relief. It wasn’t much, but it encouraged me. I could do this!
I think we sometimes approach the Bible like I approached packing my house. It’s a huge book filled with history, prophecies, lessons, wisdom and so much more. All are vital truths with eternal significance. We think we need to take everything in at once, which can cause us to avoid even opening our Bibles because we are so overwhelmed by the idea of all that’s inside.
Don’t get me wrong — I absolutely love my Bible. It is my lifeline. But when I think of the weightiness of its contents and the vast amount of information, it can cause me to sigh and think, Can I do this? Where do I even begin?
What I have come to realize in those seasons of feeling overwhelmed is that I need to pray and ask God where to put my focus. There are times when taking on the full Bible is an amazing adventure, and I’m here for it! But there are also times when I feel God saying, Slow down. Really focus on this specific portion of My Word in the context of My story. And just enjoy being with Me. And I’m here for those times too.
During my current season of feeling overwhelmed, I am reading through the book of Mark. I have been able to focus on that specific text, allowing a story I’ve read many times to bring new comfort and understanding.
“Then a poor widow came and dropped in two small coins. Jesus called his disciples to him and said, ‘I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.’” (Mark 12:42-44)
Though this passage talks about money, I think the truth goes beyond finances. Some days, we have a surplus of ourselves to give. We are filled with energy, invigorated to study and full of purpose. Other days, we are beaten by the stresses of life, weighed down by exhaustion, and we struggle to find even a small portion of ourselves to give. And just as He saw the widow’s offering, God sees ours too.
Whether we’re ready to unpack large amounts of God’s Truth or need to focus on the bookcase method — one thing at a time — God is ready to commune with us right where we need Him. In His Word, we find renewed strength. And no matter the size of what we can bring, He is all-in. He is holding us through every challenge and every joy we face.
Dear heavenly Father, thank You for seeing me and loving me right where I am. Thank You for understanding the times when I am overwhelmed and for drawing near to guide and direct me. Thank You for Your Word, which brings truth, wisdom, comfort and hope. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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