Today, I took my daughter in to get bloodwork done for the first time. She was anxious and scared. My heart broke and I wished I could give blood in her place just so she wouldn’t have to suffer, however this is something that needs to be done in order to help us understand her health and how we can best support it. She asked me to never let go of her hand, so I held her hand the entire time and spoke words of encouragement as she sat in the chair. I reminded her how brave and strong she is. I told her over and over to take a deep breath and to hold tight to my hand. After she was finished, she felt relieved, but even more than that, she felt proud of the fact that she had made it through just fine. My heart as a parent flooded with love as I watched her face the challenge and come out feeling stronger and triumphant.

Having children of my own has helped me realize that my Heavenly Father loves me the same way I love my children, only on a much greater scale! We are HIS children, and he loves us unconditionally. He holds our hands through our trials, encourages us as we face our fears, provides strength and comfort when we feel anxious, and celebrates our victories with us. Even more than that, he did give his blood (life) in our place to pay a debt we could not. Despite our mistakes, and the many times we veer off His path, He patiently calls us and waits for us to get back on track. We will always be welcomed back to His open arms. He will also feel sadness as he watches us suffer some of the consequences that come from our disobedience, but when we confess our sin to Him, he will forgive and forget it. He will keep no record of wrongs to hold against us. God loves us deeply, no matter what.

Suggested prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for the many lessons you teach me through life as a parent. It gives me a glimpse of the great love you have for me… one that will not be changed by what I do or don’t do, or the circumstances around me. Instead, it is a steadfast love of which I can never be separated. Thank you for the privilege of being called your child. In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.   

1. Romans 8:38-39 (NLT).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.