I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.    Isaiah 41:10

Photo Courtesy of Pixabay.com

There have been a few rough patches for Jocelyn this school year. With some complicated dynamics between her third-grade classmates, unfortunately, she’s gotten caught in the ensuing drama.

Jocelyn has an enormous heart that is tender and vulnerable. Consequently, the tears have flown often. We’ve had many a conversation about what a good and true friendship looks like.

When things came to a head again recently, she cried, “How come I don’t know how to handle this?” My response was, “Because you’re eight! You’re not supposed to know how to handle everything at your age. That’s why God gave you a mother, to help you. I’ve experience all of this. I know how to lead you through.” Then I hugged her.

We were both in our bathrobes at the time, the fluffy, cuddly kind. With my arms around her, I felt protective and trusted. On her end, I knew she felt safe and loved. The moment felt incredibly sacred. I couldn’t help but think it was all a reflection of God’s love.

How we feel toward our children is exactly how God feels toward us, but more so. He wants us to turn to Him when we’re in distress. And, by no means does He expect us to have things all figured out. He’s been through it all, via Jesus, and knows exactly how to lead us through. He’s just waiting for us to trust Him so He can protect us.

I think, at the end of the day, that’s the whole point of our time here on earth: To experience all the ways we fall short. When we do, we let down our guard and accept that we can’t do life without God’s help and guidance, nor should we want to.

Questions for Reflection:

     * Do I think I have to be able to handle every situation on my own?

     * Am I able to admit I need God, and then turn to Him for help?