I published this post a few summers ago, but it is still a lesson I need to learn! Can you relate?
So having successfully dropped all my older children off at Vacation Bible School for the morning, I thought it would be a great chance to take my two year old to the lake. We made it to the water’s edge when suddenly she realized we had left her all-important “ga-ga,” (sippy cup) in the van. I assured her I could go get it. She was very sure she could go get it. I told her it was too hard for her and of course I got the two year old, “Why?” I reminded her she couldn’t open the big door. I told her all she needed to do was to wait for me, hold still, I would go open the door and get what she needed.
By this point, of course, I was laughing at myself. How many countless times had I had this conversation with God: “God, I need something.” I’ll take care of it, you just wait on me and be still. “I can do it myself, if only I could just pry this door open!”
As I went back to our van I could see her start to follow me, still sure that I needed supervising or reminding. The path was too rough for her little feet so she was soon just standing there stuck halfway between the lake and the van. This too was familiar to me. Instead of relaxing at the lake or wherever God has asked me to wait, I supervise Him in my prayers or try to get to where I want to go on my own. Of course I end up stuck on the path.
After I retrieved the sippy cup and scooped my girl up in my arms, I thought about how much nicer just sitting by the lake waiting for God would be, instead of continuing to try to find my way on my own. Maybe some day I’ll get there, but I’m so glad God continues to scoop me up and carry me on the path I should go.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6
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