Around our home the past several months, we have been dealing with a 2 year old attitude which can fluctuate from kind and helpful to an unrelentingly selfish little boy. When he is determined to do something and you offer to assist in any way, his first reply is often an emphatic “No, Me do!” I suppose if we always let others do everything for us, we would not grow much in our development. There are other times when this same guy can attempt something a couple times, then get frustrated, give up, and want you to do it for him. If it is something, like taking off his socks, that he has done before and is capable of doing on his own, we encourage him by saying ‘you do it.’ This can lead to motivation or further frustration depending on the day. So, when we are given instructions to do something opposite of what we feel like doing, what is our first response?
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
The other thing I have seen lately is that when I am around this little guy for very long, I notice that he is watching and imitating most everything I am doing. From the way I hold my arms, to the tasks that I am working on, to the words that I say, he wants to copy me. While this is flattering in many ways, it is also humbling, as it makes me more aware of my actions and some of the flaws in my life that I would rather not have anyone see or do. It may seem kind of ironic, being held accountable by a 2 year old, but better someone than no one, whether young or old. I have always been struck by the boldness of Paul, when he asks us to imitate his behavior. Are we able to say the same to anyone…do as I do?
Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ. 1 Corinthians 11:1
Who are you imitating? Is there someone you have read about or even who you may see on a day to day basis that you strive to be like? Maybe you remember the phrase popular and possibly overused 20 some years ago that asked ‘what would Jesus do?’ He is our ultimate example of God in the flesh and how to interact with others and with God the Father in this life. It may seem unattainable at times, but those are the times we need to ask for more help, instead of trying to ‘go it alone’ as we so often do. So, if you have someone willing to lend you a hand from time to time, whether they be 8 or 80 years old or somewhere in between, accept that help and learn from it, so that they can do the same. Turn to your Heavenly Father and the example of his Son when you realize you need help, instead of as a last resort. When we ask, the answer we get may be ‘you do it’ or ‘let them help you’, either of which we may not initially like. Give others the opportunity to teach you and to lead by example, so that you can do the same for anyone else who asks, whether a stranger or a little shadow.
Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:16
Courage in Christ,
Clark
