I watch my 1-year-old granddaughter one day a week. She slows me down, thank God. She draws my focus to tiny hands, the floor I thought was clean, the lower shelves of my book case. She forces me to look at things from a different perspective. And she demonstrates an unparalleled determination.
As a new walker, she falls on her padded bottom countless times. Toddling around the house much faster than she should, she is tripped up by a loose throw rug, or a toy she doesn’t see, or the corner of the blanket she insists on dragging like Linus. But she never gives up. She just keeps getting up.
How many times have I tripped and fallen spiritually, emotionally, literally? I don’t get up quite as quickly as my granddaughter. Sometimes I just lie there for a minute and moan. After all, the ground is a little farther away for me. But just like her, I have someone watching over me, checking things out from my perspective, understanding exactly what it’s like to be in my shoes—or chubby toes. And He loves me even more than I love my granddaughter. Hard to imagine, isn’t it?
When I pick up that little bundle of wiggles to comfort her or listen to her frustrated, evolving language, I am reminded that the Lord does the same for me.
Run to Him when you fall. He will pick you up and comfort you.
***
As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you;
(Isaiah 66:13 NIV)
I always think of this when arms outstretched in praise and worship, like a child reaching to it’s parents. Same thing, only reaching to God.
Amen, Linda.
I enjoyed your post today. As a teacher, I am reminded every day that we are not alone. Some of my students come from such tragic environments, they must have a guardian angel watching over them- for they continue to get up and strive for something better. Your granddaughter is lucky to have you!
Thank you, Linda. I taught for many years, too, and there were some little guys that I just wanted to take home. Praise God your students have a praying teacher.
Lovely post, Davalynn. Your granddaughter is adorable 🙂
Thank you, Narelle.
Beautiful post. Must be like a child…you reminded me what the Bible says.
Thanks, Karen. I’m so glad our Lord considers us His children.