Time to put childish ways behind us
"When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man I put childish ways behind me."
- 1 Corinthians 13:11 (NIV)
Memories serve us well. I recall the time I walked in his room to discover my 3-year-old son dressed in a yellow and brown striped polo shirt, multicolored green checkered pants that came down to the length of his shin, and the toes on his shoes pointing in opposite directions. I gasped at his lack of fashion consciousness.
A battle quickly ensued when I suggested that he exchange a few articles of clothing to a better mix and match.
"I do it myself!" he protested.
After my own lesson on patience and perseverance, we finally settled for a few minor changes.
Fortunately, my son, now an adult, has outgrown his childish way of fashion and has more style when selecting his clothing.
Reflecting back on this episode, however, makes me wonder to myself how many times a similar battle is going on between us and God. We want our way, yet, God like a loving parent, is trying to show us a new way to better ourselves.
Instead of reaching out for his loving kindness and looking at new ways to do something, we stick to our stubborn, childish ways of rebellion and decide, " I do it myself!" Thus keeping us stuck in something that doesn't even fit us anymore.
God wants us to turn to him for help. He can give us an easier, smarter way to do things, a positive new direction or even open an unexpected door of blessing. But he can't if we refuse to turn our ways over to him and try to do everything ourselves.
Whether we are struggling to forgive someone, break a habit, or change an attitude, we need the power of the Holy Spirit in our life to help us bring about change.
Maybe it's time to examine what childish ways we are holding on to in our hearts, and realize God wants to help us to put those ways behind us so we can reach our full potential.
• Annettee Budzban is an author, speaker, life coach and nurse. You can contact her at Annetteebudzban@aol.com or (847) 543-8413. Ever considered writing or publishing for fun or profit? Join Annettee at 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 29, at Panera Bread in Round Lake Beach. Will be canceled and rescheduled if there is snow.