When my children were little, this was probably their least favorite thing to be told. Actually, my younger children still hate to hear this. However, sometimes it is the best solution to a childish meltdown. For my nine year old, it is almost a magic cure. Much like his older brother at his age, an hour in his room alone can work wonders.
I know we often hear of the dichotomy between being a child and an adult. In the case of being sent to your room, this is very true. I would love to be sent to my room every now and then–and I need to be sometimes! There are times when I have meltdowns too.
The truth is, these would be perfect times for me to take a minute, go to my room and pray. My adult meltdowns usually stem from trying to take on too much. I get bogged down trying to carry things that God never meant for me to carry alone. A few minutes in prayer help me calm down and focus on my relationship with Him. He reminds me that I am never alone and that the burden He gives me is light because He is right by my side carrying it.
I have to be honest, all of this is a lot easier said than done. This summer it has seemed like heavy burdens have been piling on one after another. I know that it isn’t just me either, a lot of people I know are going through extremely difficult things. One of the things I love about a relationship with Jesus is that I can be absolutely real with Him about how I am feeling, and this summer it seems I have run the gamut of feelings! I have been angry, sad, scared, relieved, anxious, happy and even a little depressed. But through all of this, Jesus has never left me alone, even when I have felt alone. I have encouraged my children in this also, that when they feel like they are alone in their rooms, Jesus is actually right there with them.
If you have been feeling overwhelmed too, may I suggest you go to your room? Your Heavenly Father is just waiting to spend some time with you. He is ready to hear all about how you are feeling and listen to all your concerns. He would love to come alongside you and carry the burdens you were never meant to carry.
“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father.” Matthew 6:6a
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