Tonight I baby sat my friend’s son.
My own son was very helpful the entire time until he heard me speaking the Word of God over this cute toddler. I admit, I felt the shift in the atmosphere but I couldn’t address it at the moment.
As the time neared for both children to go to sleep, I asked my son to get ready for bed. That’s nothing out of the ordinary. I went up a few moments later to find him ready for bed, having done all he knows he needs to do, but he was fighting back tears.
I asked him if he wanted to talk and he told me ‘no’. After a barrage a questions, he basically told me that no hug, no kiss, and no talking would make him feel better. I was saddened by the fact that I knew something was bothering him, but he chose to hold it in.
I embraced him, firmly, and it was enough to push out those waiting streams from his eyes. He finally expressed that he felt that I liked the toddler more than him because I spoke nice words. I speak those words to my son as well.
Of course I felt objection rising to my lips but I let my little guy express all his feelings. I asked for forgiveness, we reconciled, the atmosphere was more positive, and I left him to his dreams.
It got me to thinking about how many people, especially men (in my experience) receive time, kind words, and attention consistently. The moment it’s shared with another, problems can occur.
I don’t fault my son at all. Even though he is not an only child, he is MY only child. Of course he receives all of my attention and more so I am not surprised by how he reacted.
It showed me, though, how much I need to (1) express those kind words to him more and (2) continue to lead him into the arms of Christ.
I’m a single mom. I can’t be all that he needs (as much as I used to try). It was hard enough for me to let go and trust God at His word when He told me he would keep my son.
But this showed me how emotionally fragile many people are when hurt is experienced or they are searching for acceptance and fullness. I was there before. I searched in many different places, things, and people to fill a void that only God could take care of.
I say all this to say that we all, every one of us, are childlike in seeking affection and approval in one way or another. But God has set His affection on us (Deuteronomy 10:15, NIV) and He has approved us (Romans 14:18, KJV) as we are in Christ Jesus.
God has so many wonderful things to say about you right now.
Are you willing to listen?
Crystal Writes 