Lessons Learned From a One-Year-Old

Today is my youngest grandchild’s first birthday. Micah—the world’s cutest baby boy—has come a long way since he arrived. He now knows how to feed himself Cheerios, how to clap his hands, how to point and play peek-a-boo, and how to get from point A to point B on his knees. He’s also practicing his walking skills, although he still needs someone to hold his hands and steady him.

I recently spent a week camping in southern British Columbia with my family. Concentrated time with Micah enabled me to better understand a spiritual truth found in Psalm 40:2:

“He [God] set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along.”

When with Micah at the beach, I’d set his little feet on the sand and steady him as he walked. My efforts worked best when he gripped my fingers and trusted me with his well-being. If he had arched his back and flailed about instead, then no amount of effort on my part would have enabled me to help him learn to step, step, step forward.

Get the picture?

Christ’s followers are to demonstrate childlike faith. That means gripping His fingers, allowing Him to set our feet on solid ground, and trusting Him to steady us as we step-step-step forward. Fear and uncertainty might make our knees quiver, but we can rest assured that He’s caring for us. Our role is to cling to Him. He’ll do the rest.

What challenges face you today, my friend? Perhaps you’re struggling with marriage problems or parenting concerns. Maybe you’re hiding an addiction or an eating disorder. Perhaps you’re wrestling with the aftermath of abuse. Maybe you’re facing a move with numerous uncertainties that accompany change.

Whatever challenges you face, know that you’re not alone. Jesus is with you, and He promises to set your feet on solid ground and keep you from falling. That might happen through counseling, through the prayers of godly friends, or through asking for practical help. Certainly it comes through clinging to His promises and living according to their truth. You can trust Him because He cares deeply for your well-being.

Have a Son-filled day. As for me, I’m going to celebrate Micah’s birthday with his family later this afternoon. I’ll bet he’ll catch on quickly how to eat cake and ice-cream!

Photo courtesy of Sura Nualpradid at www.FreeDigitalPhotos.net