Fashionable Faith

Flickr Credit: Lawrence Whittemore

There’s no containing him. He squeals in delight as he gallops through the wet, sloppy grass. The curvy red slide calls to him like my reading chair calls to me. His hands wave with reckless abandon as if the movement will help him move faster towards his goal.

And I take that deep breath. The one where I remind myself control does not need to be mine. I can enjoy what comes my way. For there is joy to be found amidst the tall scaffolds of playground equipment.

You see, I wear worry like a fashion statement. Pain is something I try to avoid at all cost, especially when it can be inflicted on those I love. And lately, God has shown me this helmet of caution is no longer needed. In fact, He never gave it to me in the first place.

We all know the portion of Matthew. The one I always try to glaze over quickly. But lately, I’ve found myself slowing down. Reading it twice. Trying to find the loophole.

Friends, I have not found a single snag. In fact, this verse has spoken to me like never before:

And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith? Matthew 6:25-34

I’ll admit my nature of worry is a control issue. But I had honestly never thought of it as a faith issue. For I don’t worry about whether God is real and cares for me. I worry about keeping my family safe in this world that is not my home.

Here I am, a mother, in the realm of the unknown. Opportunities of fun, development, danger, rejection and hurt around every corner. How does a mother’s heart balance the potential of every circumstance for their child? At what point can we intervene? I have to get this thing now as the reasons to worry will only increase with each birthday candle.

As I’m standing next to my son now scaling monkey bars, it hits me. It is a faith thing. For He is the only one who sees all the details. The realm of opportunities. And He’s promised, time and time again. He’s got everything under control.

I’ve decided to trade in this hat of worry I’ve worn like a crown. I’ll exchange it for a large cap of faith. I will strive to keep my eyes on Him and not on the worry whispering in my ear. For He knows the path ahead down to the last pebble. And if I am clinging to Him, He will show me the way.

If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it. Matthew 10:39

How about you? How do you clothe your mother heart? How do you wear your faith? I’d love to hear.

6 Responses to Fashionable Faith
  1. illumylife by Joy
    April 26, 2012 | 9:09 pm

    Hi Nikki,
    How is it possible to know the truth that not only is God in control but He is so much better at protecting us with his unfailing love, and yet continually worry. I still pray for each of my children and grandchildren by name every day and perhaps that’s just the mother’s heart God placed in me to want to love and protect them the best way I can. Only God can then change my fears to praise.
    Joy

    • Nikki
      April 27, 2012 | 10:21 pm

      Beautifully put, Joy. What a joy it is, this mother’s heart. Love how you’re putting it to good use by continuing to pray for your children and grandchildren by name each and every day! I will be right there with you doing the same.
      Blessings to you
      all for Him,
      Nikki

  2. Dolly
    April 26, 2012 | 10:41 pm

    what a great insight, Nikki, about how worry is a control issue and how God wants us to have faith in His control…Wonderful post…thank you, friend 🙂

    • Nikki
      April 27, 2012 | 10:23 pm

      Thank you, friend! (and I know you know this–it wasn’t my insight…I got hit in the head with the realization of it thanks to prayer) 🙂
      Enjoy your weekend!

  3. Krissi
    May 4, 2012 | 9:59 pm

    How many times I have fought that fear…and I was well aware that it was contrary to trusting Him. It feels “normal” as a mother, but you are right, it’s not faith. Like this reminder!

    • Nikki
      June 1, 2012 | 8:54 am

      Krissi, I remember being warmed by your comment, but didn’t realized I never replied back, I’m so sorry. So glad I’m not alone in fighting the normal tendencies of our mother-role. Striving with you to cling to faith and not fear!

      All for Him,
      Nikki