Category: Parenting

Posted on in Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Father Knows Best

Over the last two years since Dave died, I’ve been able to go through many of his belongings. But, until recently, I still had his 1965 Chevelle (a classic car). I started praying for God’s help in selling the Chevelle. It was time to sell it, but I was struggling with how to go about it.

Over a few weeks, I had several people interested and even received a couple (low) offers. I was frustrated at these perceived setbacks.

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So, I asked God if there was anything I was missing, or that He wanted to show me…

I had been prepping my daughter, Lydia, for several months in anticipation of selling the car. I explained that it will no longer be “Daddy’s car” when we sell it. Lydia had never ridden in it because she was still so little—17 months old—when Dave died…and there were no seat belts in the back. In the past, I tried to put her in it and take some pictures but it never worked out.

On a recent Sunday evening, we were talking about the Chevelle (still in our garage). On her own, Lydia said she would like to ride in the car. I had never even thought of that! Right away, I realized that is probably what the Lord was waiting on…that moment.

My neighbor drove Lydia and two of his daughters on a tour around the neighborhood. He said Lydia talked the whole time, and had a great ride! She never would have been able to remember such an event previously. So, I am very glad to wait on God’s perfect timing. Had we already sold the car, she would not have that experience!

Lydia and I often talk about God being our (her) Father. I want her to have closure, but Father God cares so much more about her little heart than I do. I was so touched, that God would wait until she was older for her to have this special experience. One she will actually remember, and can look back on with joy.

God’s plan is always perfect, and often He is working behind the scenes. This was most certainly worth the wait! Thank You, Father, for all you do for us. Father knows best! 🙂

Posted on in Miscellaneous, Parenting

What I Learned from a Cup of Milk

“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” (1 John 3:1).

God’s Fatherly love for us only becomes more apparent when you are a parent!

When Lydia was about 15 months old, she obviously had a limited vocabulary. She was unable to communicate effectively what she wanted. Of course, as a mother, I relied on understanding her habits, nonverbal grunts and actions. I also knew her basic schedule and exactly what she needed.

One day, Lydia went to the refrigerator for some milk. I poured her milk, but did not move quickly enough for her impatient little self. She screamed. She cried. Her face turned red with anger. Full-blown tantrum!

I had every intention to give Lydia the milk. In fact, I wanted her to have it. But, her hands were so clenched that she physically could not receive the cup of milk. Lydia begged for the milk, and was furious that I didn’t give it to her. Yet, I was simply unable to give her what she so desperately wanted.

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In that moment, I could see how unpleasant we appear when impatiently waiting on the Lord. Just like a loving parent gives good gifts to their children, every good and perfect gift comes from our Father God (see James 1:17). God has good plans for us. He longs to give us good things—such as gifts, wisdom and guidance, and answers to prayer.

If it doesn’t line up with our timeline, or match our expectations, we can completely miss what God is doing in our lives. We beg God. We demand He fulfill our wishes. We can get frustrated with God at times, but it is so clear from the other side.

Father God, help me to wait patiently on You. I don’t want to grumble or complain. Help me be cheerful, and yield to Your timing. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.