My husband and I just celebrated our 20th anniversary with a trip to the beach with no kids. It was the first time we had been away from them together for more than a night or two.
We had a great time together and enjoyed getting to relax. But as I was sitting in the sun with my eyes closed (no kids to watch), I thought to myself, “It’s a nice break not having to worry about keeping anyone alive today.”
And, I mean as soon as that thought came into my head, God convicted me of it.
“Really? YOU keep them alive? It’s you? Sure, you’re responsible and make sure they aren’t doing things that will hurt them. You make sure they have food to eat and clothes to wear. You love them. You teach them good things.
BUT YOU DON’T KEEP THEM ALIVE. I DO.
Every hair on their head is numbered by ME.
Every day of their lives was written in My book before one of them came to be by ME.
You’re a good mom. But You need to know that I’m in control.”
Wow!
And I do know that. I know that as moms we can do everything right but it doesn’t ensure our kids’ safety. Accidents happen. Illnesses happen.
I think God wanted me to know that I’m doing a good job as a mom, but wanted to remind me that He loves my kids more than I do and ultimately He is in control.
Maybe you need that reminder too.
God gave you your children and He loves them even more than you do. He wants you to take care of them but to also have faith in Him that He will watch over them.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
“Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” Luke 12:7
So, I love this post. It is very relatable…except if I share it, I will have many members of my family who will be confused and hurt. We have lost an 11 year old girl in our family. She died in a vehichle accident. We were all together at a birthday party for one of the 11 year olds 5 siblings, waiting on her, her mother and the cake and a few last minute things. We weren’t even notified, her boyfriend went out for whatever reason and saw all the lights, headed there and found out and he called and told us. They were a few minutes away from home. I grieve, but I am spiritually well. Many of her closer family members are not. I really have enjoyed the works you have shared, which are all scripture driven. Do you have anything to add or share for any one dealing with the fact that there are children that God did not keep alive? Thank you for all that you do!
I’m so sorry to hear that. I don’t ever want to know what that pain is like. But God doesn’t promise us we won’t have pain in this world. In fact, he says, ” In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
The Bible also says, “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” We have to keep pressing on, finding our strength in God for each day. Looking forward to a future with Him in Heaven.