When my kids were still in diapers, they would cry sometimes when I would leave them with their grandma and head out to work. Not because they didn’t want to be with her, but because they just wanted their mom. After being gone for a bit, they would adjust and play joyfully with their grandma. Though whenever they cried, it broke my heart. I hated leaving them like that. That sentiment still remains. Anytime they are upset, it still hurts my heart. Naturally, I only want the best for them. Though sometimes, especially now as they are getting older, I have to allow them to make their own choices about some things. I guide and advise; though sometimes it is up to them. I can’t tell you how often and how many times I have prayed for my children over the years. For when we love someone so much, we genuinely want the best for them. There have also been times where I had to make decisions for them, in their best interest. I see God being like this with us, His children. I can only imagine how much it hurts Him, when we hurt. For He only wants the best for us. Sometimes in our own free choice, we hurt our own hearts. He guides and advises. Though He gives us that free will. Though through it all, He is in control and gets the ultimate say. God truly loves us deeply and tremendously and only wants the best for us; just as we do our children. Just as my kids know that I am here for them, cheering them on and looking out for them; God too is, for us all. May we go to God with the confidence of safety and love as a child feels in their parents’ arms. For just as our love remains for our children, no matter how old they are, God’s love for us too remains constant. Friend, we are all loved deeply by God and He wants what is best for us. May we be assured of this and find comfort in it. May we walk in His love and His care and His guidance.

Erin Fitts-Brower

Comfort in His love

Psalm 56:8 NIV

Record my misery; list my tears on your scroll— are they not in your record?

Deuteronomy 30:19 NIV

This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live

Romans 8:28 NIV

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.