Rachel has been known to steal drinks from anyone’s cup. She often digs through my purse, looking for gum. She likes to try to put random items into my grocery cart.
When I tell her no, ask her to wait, or remind her that item doesn’t belong to her, she has one general response:
“But I like it.”
Well, that’s fine to like it, whatever it is this time, but that doesn’t mean she gets to have it. Now that’s a hard lesson for a three-year-old girl to grasp because it’s a hard lesson at any age.
We see what we like and we want it. Sure, there’s something good about being confident and having desires. But our feelings toward something doesn’t always justify our possession of it.
Sometimes my answer to my girl is about waiting for a better time. Maybe my girl doesn’t need candy right when I’m finishing up dinner, but having a piece of gum after we eat tacos is fine. Perhaps I can give her a drink from my cup, but that doesn’t mean she should swipe a drink of another mom’s sweet tea at soccer practice.
And isn’t that like our timing conflicting with God’s sovereignty? Sometimes the answers to our prayers don’t make sense, but our Father has our best interest at heart because he can see the full picture.
As we draw closer to God, his desire becomes
our desires and our impulsivity slows.
Like I tell her now and will tell her again, God’s in the process of working all things together for the good (Romans 8:28) and finishing what he’s started in us (Phil. 1:6). Now, that doesn’t seem like it applies to whatever little thing my toddler sets her sights on at the moment.
But I’m convinced if I teach her that there’s value on waiting and trusting — even with the little pleasures — then she will believe both God and her mom when it comes to bigger circumstances. Plus when I teach her, God reminds me of those foundational truths on which I’m building my life.
And I sure do like that.
*****
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Kristin, some of the best lessons learned have come through the children in my life. I love when they reveal the hidden in all of us and grow us to be more like Jesus. May Rachel come to learn to trust and wait on God. And mom 🙂 xo
Mom needs to do her fair share of waiting too. I’m still learning. 🙂 Thanks for your sweet encouragement, Joanne. xo
Wow, I really do LIKE this post, Kristin, because I’m spending some time today pondering the sovereignty of God for a piece I’m working on, and we LOVE that truth when he hands us the “straw or the piece of gum.” We’re just not so sure about His refusals. . . which are also for our ultimate good.
YES! I’ve been thinking about this very idea too, Michele! I’m getting ready to read a book called “God Over Good” by Luke Norsworthy that I believe will keep me thinking about this. I’m glad you and your words are here. xo
I long for that kind of shift. The shift from impulsive to patient in Him. It is so hard sometimes, but it is the longing of my heart. Praying as I draw closer it will become easier — just like you said 😉
That’s my longing too, Becky! One day at a time … I’m thankful we don’t have to do it alone or with perfection. I’m always glad to see you here.
It’s hard to wait – as a child and as an adult. I often have to remind myself that just because I like or want something doesn’t mean I should have it, or have it now (especially chocolate…). these lessons will serve your daughter all her life.
Oh I have to remind myself regularly! I’m glad I’m not the only one! 🙂 Thank for being here, Barbara!
Yum…Ted Drewes! Who wouldn’t like a drink from THAT cup…LoL!
I second that, Sarah! 😉
For real. 🙂
You are such a smart mama. Good training up, Kristin!
By God’s grace alone, that’s for sure! Love you, friend. xo
Love these thoughts. God teaches us so much through our children. laurensparks.net
Yes, I’ve learned so much about faith through my kids. Thanks for being here, Lauren!