Raising my two-year-old daughter often leaves me in a constant state of wonder. I marvel at how she sees the world, how she is learning to navigate it, and how she is slowly discovering her place within it. Her current emotional development has captured me most – and has reminded me often of our own relationship with God.

 

Discipline and emotional regulation are daily realities in our home right now. It is hard work, but consistency matters if we hope to see the fruit later. Lately, being told “no” feels catastrophic to her. She has a strong will, and her instinct is to push boundaries – especially when something she wants is withheld. “No more chocolate before bed.” “You can’t play with that – you might get hurt.” “You can’t play outside when it’s dark.”

 

Each moment is met with big emotions and heartfelt protest. Every time, I feel the weight of holding the boundary while watching her struggle with disappointment. It isn’t easy, but I remain firm – not because I want to upset her, but because I know what she does not. I can see the danger she cannot yet understand. So, I sit with her emotions, comfort her, and wait with her until the moment passes.

 

This has reminded me so clearly of how God parents us.

 

There are times when God says no to plans we were sure were right. Not because he withholds good from us, but because he sees what lies ahead. What feels like loss to us is often protection in his hands. Love, sometimes, sounds like restraint.

 

What strikes me most is this: when my daughter is deeply upset, she runs to us – the very ones who said no. She seeks comfort from the source of her disappointment. As adults, we often do the opposite. When life hurts or God’s answer isn’t what we hoped for, we withdraw instead of drawing near.

 

Jesus tells us to become like children. (Matthew 18:3) Perhaps this includes trusting God enough to run to him even when we don’t understand his “no”. To bring our disappointment into his presence, believing that his heart toward us is always good.

 

Prayer: Father God, when things don’t unfold the way I hoped, help me to trust your heart. Teach me to run to you – even when I feel disappointed or confused – knowing that you love me and always have my best in mind. Amen.