Everyone is afraid of something.  Me?  My biggest fears often revolve around parenting.  Parenting challenges have changed a bit and today we have to worry about things like internet safety, Facebook stalkers, and “sexting.”  I guess it’s really about safety for our children and uncertain futures.  That hasn’t changed.  Safety and uncertain futures are concerns for many of us.

Parenting concerns are real.  Well-meaning people have told me not to worry because God will watch over my children.  Of course I pray for my children and I can’t imagine trying to raise them without God’s help, but I can’t help but think, “Yes, but God doesn’t always intervene.  Children get hurt.  Children still die.  So, that’s not good enough.”  I know worrying doesn’t do any good.  Good parenting can help but gives no guarantees.  Good parents have children who get hurt, ill, or die.  We all know that life doesn’t always give us happy endings and sometimes things are not okay.  So what’s the answer?  I don’t have an answer for you today.

Thinking again about the advice people have given, “Don’t worry.  Pray.  God will watch over your child,” I realize it does bring some comfort.  Not because I believe God will rescue my children.  There is always that hope, and I know God does sometimes miraculously intervene; but because I know that no matter what, God will be there with them every step of the way.  God will be there to hold them when they hurt.  God will be there at times when I cannot. God loves my children and nothing can keep God away.  Oh, that won’t keep me from worrying or from trying to protect my children, but there is something comforting about knowing God is always there.  When things are not okay, I hope in the resurrection and I cling to God’s promises.  I remember God is with us, God is for us, and God loves us.  Read Romans 8:31-39, and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally!

Annie

Today’s Reading:  https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8%3A31-39&version=ESV