Trusting Your Father

                                                               A Picture of Trust

The African impala can jump to a height of over 10 feet and cover a distance of greater than 30 feet. Yet, these magnificent creatures can be kept in an enclosure in any zoo with a 3 foot wall. Do you know why? They must be certain where their feet will fall, or they will not jump.  I guess they have not learned trust in their development.

Whenever I look at this picture of my son and granddaughter, I think how Ava’s trust in her father takes away all fear. He throws her into the air (to grandma’s chagrin), and she expects him to catch her. She is assured that her daddy will keep her safe. John has proven himself to Ava time and time again in her five short years on earth. John has a very close relationship with Ava. They look alike and act alike. As I watch her actions and reactions, it is like rearing John again. She loves to do risky things because he has taught her that he will be there to encourage her, help her, and cheer her. She has assurance that her dad is her best friend, best provider, and safety net. She does not let fear entrap her if her dad is near. Ava is secure because of her love for her daddy and  his unconditional love and trust.

John has taught Ava trust. I believe this will carry over in her spiritual life. Since she has learned to trust her earthly father, it will be easier for her to trust in God. Trust has many benefits. According to scripture Psalm 37, one who actively commits himself to the Lord can expect these benefits:

• to enjoy safe pastures,

• to inherit the land,

• to enjoy peace,

• to be upheld by God,

• to gain an enduring inheritance,

• to live securely

• to never be forsaken by God

In verse 31, a benefit of trust is “not to slip”. This photo of a daughter being hurled in the air is an action shot of trust. Ava knows her daddy will not let her slip.

As I look at this photo, I think of how many times I have hurled myself into dangerous situations. I have put myself  in precarious positions. But, God has not let me slip. He has caught me and held on to me and brought me into safe pastures.

Psalm 31:5 in the Message version reads, “I’ve put my life in your hands. You won’t drop me; you’ll never let me down.” Both of these psalms free me of my fears and encourage me daily. These words provide an assurance that I will be caught in the hands of my heavenly father.

Today is one of those days that I needed reminded of how well my Father cares for me. I write this to share scriptures that create a strong base for my trust in Him. These words ignite my spirit. I trust because my Father has caught me and kept me from harm many times. I know His love is unconditional.