Knowing your limits

I have often prided myself in being a busy person and enjoying the challenges life throws at me, it is somewhat akin to those 'adrenaline junkies" who like going out of a plane or other dangerous pursuit. But, when it came to my current situation of learning Japanese, I have learnt a hard lesson, and I found a bible verse that reflects it.

The Good News Translation puts it this way “I have learned that everything has limits” (Psalm 119.96). We all have a "breaking point". This could be a toxic work environment, a lingering injury or dealing with family situations that inevitably crop up. None of these are any one person's fault, it is part of life and sometimes they come along to teach us.

To be honest all of these hit at the same time, while learning Japanese. Now learning a language has never been a problem, until now. Our bodies, mind and spirit, do take a beating, and God reminded me, that for all the gifts given, we humans have a limit and I admit that I now exceeded mine.

Pride in one's work is not a bad thing. In fact, we should use work or any other endeavour as an act of worship in thankfulness to God. But when the self pride comes creeping in, then we deviate from where God wants us to be. It is a hard lesson to learn, but I know, that even though I probably won't pass my exam, I can be content I tried my best.

Knowing the limits we have in mind, body and spirit serves as a reminder that we are to walk in humility. love and grace. It is a cautionary tale of not running ahead of God and always, always get help when you need it, even when you don't want to admit it.