I absolutely delight in bringing happiness to our dog, Jack. I wrestle with him because he loves play growling, his eyes always bright in sheer joy. I toss his toys down the hall just because it’s such fun for him to chase after them. I take him on wood walks and traipsing through fields just becaue I know he loves running and playing in the outdoors. I give him his favorite treats, delighting in his eager chomping and tail wagging. Somtimes I have to give him medicine if he’s unwell. He never hesitates to take from my hand whatever I give him. If I have to tell him, “no,” or “wait,” he still trusts me and still delights in me as I so delight in him.
In thinking about this, the question came to me, why do any of God’s children become afraid and despondent in the midst of our Father’s presence and care? If He says, “no,” or “wait,” why do we grumble and loose heart? If He sees we need some training in some area of our lives, or medicine or discipline to help us become stronger, why do we display distrust and even anger? Why do we ever, ever doubt His good, no, His best intentions for us?(Romans 8:28) Remember, it is the joy of the Lord that strenghtens us (Nehemiah 8:10). It is God’s promises that guide us and fill us with reminders of His faithfulness to us, and of His committment to guard us from demonic forces that seek to destroy our inner peace (II Thessalonians 3:3).
When we read of the lives of God’s children recorded in both the Old and New Testaments, why do we so easily forget to note that He has never failed nor forsaken anyone. Therefore, He will never fail nor forsake you or me (Hebrews 13:5). There is great joy in trusting our Father. Trust at the onset of dark trials shines light upon every step of our journey. No one goes camping without a lantern. Why do we set forth on our daily travels without meditating upon the Light of His Word?
Let us resolve to take from our Father’s hand, without hesitation, whatever He gives us. Fear begins to fade with the first step towards The Light. Remember this: The Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty Savior. He will delight in you with gladness. With His love, He will calm all your fear. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs (Zephaniah 3:17NLT).