Children can teach us much about God’s character without realizing it.
When my own children were young, they had a habit of gravitating to the most unusual objects for gratification. Natural curiosity lends itself to discovering new textures, appealing shapes and colors.
Ironically, many of the items that lure their attention, are actually dangerous or not helpful to their well being.
But getting them to understand that reality is not easy. Have you tried reasoning with a toddler?
My daughter seemed to have a knack for such objects. One day, I noticed by daughter moving around in her walker in the kitchen. When I looked at her, she was happily chewing on a dirty dog bone.
What?!
Actually, she is my second child so my germophobia had diminished since I gave birth the first time.
When I tried to take it from her, she screamed and held her hands out. What seemed to her to be a perfectly acceptable way of meeting a need was taken away.
By the one who loved her and knew what was in her best interest.
If she could only understand that I knew better; even if the consequence caused her pain.
As I reflected on that moment, a vision appeared in my head.
This time, I was the child.
How often do I find myself crying with my hands held out; angry that God has not met my perceived needs?
But I am reminded, “If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” (Matt:7:11)
In fact, God knows what we need before we ask Him. (Matt 6:8).
It’s a reminder I need to keep hidden in my heart. I’m sure I will need the reminder again.
This post was written for the Five Minute Friday Writing Community. Come join us! http://fiveminutefriday.com/
Thank you for the reminder to trust God to know best and meet my needs the only way he knows how. Stopping by (#66) from FMF.
Beautiful, Stephanie. I have been there more often that I want to admit, that is, needing to remember that my heavenly Father gives good gifts but He gets to define what is good and when it is given.
Children have a way of teaching us often, don’t they? “And a little child shall lead them.” I’m in the 44 spot this week.