When We Don't Know

When my kids were babies I used to sing to them before bed. My go-to lullaby became "The Prayer" made most famous by Celine Dion and Andrea Boccelli. It is a beautiful song, but it was one particular lyric that I really latched onto..

"Help us to be wise in times when we don't know."

Man, if that is not the constant prayer of all parents I don't know what is!

We don't know, Lord. Please, help us!

We don't know why the infant is fussy.

We don't know if this rash is a sign of a food allergy.

We don't know whether or not to vaccinate.

We don't know which school we should choose.

We don't know if this cough warrants a doctor's visit.

We don't know why are son is crying at midnight because his eye hurts but we can't find anything wrong...(that was us last night)

We just don't know....

If our kids were aware of how often we are winging this parenting thing they would be afraid! In fact, it's a miracle any of us survived childhood because I assume our parents were guessing a lot too!

But into this void of all that we don't know, I'd like to offer two Scripture passages that have brought me great comfort.

James 1:5

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.

God knows that we lack wisdom and He invites us to ask Him for more. And notice He's not just handing out little scraps - He gives generously. I can think of numerous times when I have prayed for wisdom and He has reminded me of some remedy my mom taught me or helped me to think of a solution. I have even asked the Lord to help me be more creative in thinking of ways I can teach my kids - and many of those insights are sprinkled throughout my blogs. Ask Him, friends. He gives generously.

Isaiah 40:11

He will tend his flock like a shepherd;

he will gather the lambs in his arms;

he will carry them in his bosom,

and gently lead those that are with young.

This verse reminds me that my husband and I are not alone in shepherding and raising these precious children. There is a wiser, better, more capable Shepherd who leads our family and is gentle with His guidance as we look to Him.

We don't know, but we know Someone who does. Cast all those cares on Him today, friend. He is gentle and generous.