Recently we took our annual summer vacation with the family. I’m proud to say this trip (in comparison to one I blogged about over New Year’s) was relaxing and extremely enjoyable. Well, except for one part. Bedtime. I love my son. I really do. But he doesn’t require much sleep. Midway through the week he was sleeping in the bed with his mom and me. As expected he was a wiggly worm all night long, flipping and flopping from one side to another. I had an extremely hard time sleeping and was miserable as my wife snored on the other end of that king size bed and was none the wiser. Little sleep and an early wake-up call by our ‘rooster’ left me with a terrible head/neck ache. I finally gave up on sleep and just opened my eyes with some frustration. Bub was beside me playing a game on a cell phone and said, “You okay?” Slightly frustrated I said, “No baby. You have kept me up all night and now my head and neck are hurting.” He instantly responded, “You want me to pray for you?” I said, “Yeah, pray here and here (pointing to the exact spots). He placed his hands on me, prayed a sweet little prayer, and finished by asking, “You feel better now?” Though the headache wasn’t gone, I admitted that I actually did feel better as my frustration faded away to shame.
When dealing with my children (or any child I’ve come in contact with) their level of faith is something to be admired. It’s never a question of ‘if‘ God will answer a prayer rather ‘when‘ God will answer. My shame came as I realized I was attempting to teach him a lesson on the importance of prayer-not really expecting to receive my healing. Instead I received a lesson in childlike faith. As adults we become cynical as we realize most things aren’t necessarily as cut and dry or black and white. The cynicism arrives as life doesn’t turn out the way we expect, desire, or intend it to. The older I get I’ve come to realize whether God answers our prayers or not, He’s still an Almighty and Powerful God capable of all things, be it in His will. The word tells us, “And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” Hebrews 11:6 This scripture reminds us of the importance of our faith in God and the blessings that come as a result. Our prayers must become less about what we want and more about who He is. It’s amazing the lessons you can learn after an encounter with a rowdy four year old.
Closing remarks and encouragement: As my wife has stated, “Don’t get caught up in the insignificant. Step back and concentrate on the relationship.” There’s always something greater at work. We may not always agree with God’s methods but we must have faith that He is working all things for our good….because that’s what a good Father does. Concentrate on who He is and watch the situations in your life come into alignment with His will for your life.
Have a blessed week, my friends!