Like a Child

He laughs. He cries. He begs. He expects. Very seldom does he worry. The credence of this child, his innate dependence upon his father, is deeply woven into the fabric of his soul.

Where do we lose this sense of dependence and begin to wander into the world of independence and self-reliance? The place where we no longer needs others' advice or assistance. The place where life experiences have convinced, perhaps deceived, us into believing we've arrived on some stalwart plank absent of any defect.

Here's the place I find myself retreating; to a place of arrogance. As if I've become the means to my own end. A far cry from the child reaching out for the outstretched hand of his father. Or the cynicism that casts doubt over acts of kindness because of this ego-centric world where we live. That somehow everyone has become motivated by self-interests rather than risking their own conveniences for the sake of another.

And when God confronts my misplaced and suspicious tendencies to believe such lies, He leads me back to this conclusion; "How much more will your heavenly Father give to those who ask him!" In moments of desperation, knowing my soul needs to be connected and conformed to this trustworthy source, God is reaching into time and space with promises to meet me in my mess.

It's in those moments, those God-sized moments, that I'm humbled. I realize that not only do I need Him but He cherishes me as His child. I'm hopeful. In spite of my past and oftentimes even my present circumstances, I can trust Him. I'm learning to see life through the lens of unrivaled grace pronounced over me by the most amazing and loving Father I could ever know.

And, so, God is calling me to be more like 'him' and more like 'Him.' He wants me to come to Him in the way of a child, humble and hopeful. And as I continually listen to the gentle whispers of His voice over my soul I am becoming more aware of His presence and see His character taking shape in my own life.