Training one’s child to sleep on a separate bed or bedroom is one of the inevitable challenges most parents must face. It is not easy especially when a child is used to co-sleeping, and so many parents try to use different techniques to ease this process for both them and their children. Countless nighttime awakenings, door knocks, and requests for snuggles take place for weeks or even months before the child becomes independent enough to sleep on his own.
Unlike stressed out parents whose patience levels wane down each time their children knock back into their room, our Heavenly Father smiles and delights in us each time we knock in His heart, wanting to be in His presence. Whenever we call on Him when we feel scared, powerless, and hopeless, each time we declare our full dependence on Him, He shows us all the more that He is strong and will always be there for us.
“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
One Bible story that demonstrates God’s patience with us and our weaknesses is the story of Gideon. God asked Gideon to fight one of their people’s opporessors, yet Gideon was so scared, he kept on asking for confirmation from the Lord. And instead of being impatient with Gideon, God graciously gave Gideon both assurance and encouragement that he will be okay and all will be well in the battle.
“Then Gideon said to God, “Let not your anger burn against me; let me speak just once more. Please let me test just once more with the fleece. Please let it be dry on the fleece only, and on all the ground let there be dew.” Judges 6:39
And so whenever we feel like we need God’s assurance and guidance, we should never think twice about seeking Him. He will not fault us for being so dependent on Him, because our full dependence on Him is part of our worship.
“Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually! Remember the wondrous works that he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he uttered” Psalm 105:4-5
We should rest assured that God understands our fears, anxieties and worries because His only Son, Jesus Christ became one of us and experienced the tribulations of this world. He knew how it is to be betrayed, to be intentionally hurt, to be given a task that is overwhelming, to part ways with loved ones and friends, and a lot more human difficulties.
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Hebrews 4:15:16
God is a gracious God, and we should never think twice about this truth. Instead, we should hold on to it, continue believing in it, and live our lives fully confident that we serve a King who only has our best interest at heart.
“The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. The Lord is good to all, and his mercy is over all that he has made.” Psalm 145:8-9
Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to
ponder on Hebrews 4:14-16 and Psalm 105:4-8 to dig deeper on today’s topic.
Reflection Question: Are you thinking twice whenever you present your prayers to the Lord? Will it help you become more confident to know that He delights on our dependence on Him?
Conversation with the Lord: Heavenly Father, thank you for your utmost patience and graciousness upon us. We may not be able to fathom your immeasurable grace, but we are just so glad that You are our Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace. Amen.