A Good Parent [Day 19]

By Lenora Turner

“So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him.” (Matthew 7:11 NLT)

“So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.” (Luke 12:32 NLT)

I’m an imperfect mom. I’ve certainly made my mistakes. My two children are now young adults. From the time they were in my womb through nursing, school, and the challenges of life, nearly all of my choices have hinged on how I could protect, provide for, and guide them to their best possible life. I ate differently when pregnant, sacrificed to be with them, endured painful times, and made tough choices to help them navigate the storms of life.

If—with my human weaknesses—I’ve shown patience, mercy, love, forgiveness… how much more can I expect God to watch over me carefully, pick me up when I fall, meet my needs with patience, and guide me successfully through the storms of life?

Depending on our family experience or learned perspective of God, too often we see Him as distant and disapproving. Instead, He says He counts the hairs on our head, and His thoughts of us outnumber the sands of the sea. He says His mercy endures forever. He is moved with compassion, and He is creative, generous, and kind.

I encourage you to talk to God off and on all day. Ask Him to help you see Him as He really is. He hears you. Remember, if we know how to answer a call for help, how much more does He?

Prayer

God, I need You. I’m so glad You think about me so much. Help me to come to know You better and to trust You more. Help me pour my heart out to You. Help me laugh. Restore my hope.  Help me take the next steps for my future, and thank You that I can expect You to guide me and provide for me as a kind and generous Father. In Jesus’ name, Amen.