Some kids love school. Others approach the classroom door with my tearful resistance and trepidation. Especially with little ones, parents steel themselves and nudge them forward, turning around to go with a lump in their throats. It’s hard to send them off on their own. So much can go wrong. Will they make wise choices? Will they learn and grow? Will they be safe? Whether kindergarten or college, allowing kids to spread their wings and launch off on their own is a necessary part of maturing. As parents, we provide both wings and roots. We give them tools to be successful, and welcome them back home with love and pride. They’ve accomplished another step towards becoming.
I’ve seen Father God act in similar ways. He nudges me forward, while I am resisting and complaining. I can’t do this. Don’t leave me. Yet, he steps back and tells me to get on with it. I’m sure seeing me struggle is hard for Him. Though He seems absent or silent, I have learned that He has not abandoned me. He wants me to grow up, to stretch, to learn, to struggle so I can become stronger and better. He doesn’t do it for me. I must do it myself. Rooted in Him, I am able to soar, but I must spread my wings. There comes a point after the difficulty where I again sense His presence. I rejoice in Him and again am warmed by His love and approval. I’ve accomplished another step toward becoming what He has purposed me to be.
If you are experiencing a dark time of God’s silence, don’t bemoan your situation. Get about the business of learning what God is trying to teach you. He has not abandoned you, but He wants you to “grow in grace and the knowledge of Him.” (2 Peter 3:18)
“Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5)