Iron and Hedge Trimmers
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” Proverbs 27:17, NIV.
When we attempt to teach our children a task, there’s always a tension between doing it the “right way,” and allowing our kids to learn through creative mistakes.
Our hedges might need to regrow as they hold an electric trimmer. We might need to repaint a wall as our kids learn to use a roller. And we might need to think of a unique use for a cucumber, when a zucchini was on their shopping list.
Often the call to help with the yard work disturbs our kids’ Saturday morning slumber. One begins to think, “Will they ever be ready to own their own home?”
Then one morning the child appears in the backyard unasked.
Another Saturday, the green bins are filled with their unhurried work, and you smile.
You no longer have to call, demand or bribe them to help out, they volunteer.
And it’s encouraging. Their willingness to help sharpens and builds up your hope. They will be excellent home owners.
Isn’t that the same with our Heavenly Father? He trains us, allows for mistakes, and prunes us until we are able to stand on our own. He then smiles when we volunteer to help, before being asked. He, too, is a proud Father when He notices we have been sharpened and shaped into service for His kingdom.
Where are you in your journey with Jesus? Is He still reminding you to get out of bed? Or are you setting your own alarm, in preparation to serve Him?
Father,
Thank You for training us for doing what is good and right. Thank You that You don’t get frustrated when we are learning. You only get frustrated when we refuse to learn Your way, or stop trying.
Thank You that You always receive us back for more instruction after we have given up and walked away.
Thank You that You are with us always.
You are a Good Father.
We love You,
Amen.
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