Matthew 7:7-11

Matthew 7:7-11
English Standard Version (ESV)

  There are so many times when Rachel and I look at each other and realize we have no idea what we are doing as parents.  The kids don't come with manuals, and they surprise us -- sometimes in good ways, sometimes in less than pleasant ways.  We try and make it through, day by day, dealing with situations as they arise.  Fortunately, our kids have turned out okay so far.  They've got great family support and a church that loves them and schools that support and challenge them, and we try not to mess them up. 
  If we, who don't know what we are doing and aren't always sure of the answers, can turn out kids that are ok and safe and healthy, how much better is God at raising and nurturing us?  We should trust him entirely, because he is so much better than even the best parent on earth.  He'll care for us and nourish us and feed us and challenge us and support us beyond what we can imagine.  It doesn't mean it's always easy, but it does mean that his unconditional love will be there for us no matter what, and that he has our best interests in mind, and he's working to grow us into the people he wants us to be.
  Just as Rachel and I want nothing but the best but sometimes have to discipline our kids or watch them go through challenging times, God loves you and wants you to experience abundant life.  This doesn't mean your life will be easy or perfect, but it means that God's love is always near and he can be completely trusted.