Perhaps the harshest word we ever hear growing up is also one of the shortest: “No.” “No” is a small word that packs an enormous amount of power. It has the ability to both prevent and protect. Children, however, almost singularly see the prevention side of this command, seeing “no” as only a barrier hemming them in. In reality, though, telling them no is more like a gateway to better living. “No, do not touch that electrical outlet.” “No, do not touch that hot stove.” “No, do not play in the middle of the street,” etc. Youthful ignorance and curiosity sometimes doesn’t see the protection, only the prevention in those words. Sometimes, we do the same with God. When the Heavenly Father says no to us, we often react not unlike a toddler throwing a tantrum. What’s your reaction when God says no? What happens when God closes a door and denies your seemingly good intentions? Do you still see the protection and preservation of his hand in that moment? Or do you see it as another instance of him preventing you from enjoying life and fulfilling a dream?
When God closes the door.
When God closes the door.
When God closes the door.
Perhaps the harshest word we ever hear growing up is also one of the shortest: “No.” “No” is a small word that packs an enormous amount of power. It has the ability to both prevent and protect. Children, however, almost singularly see the prevention side of this command, seeing “no” as only a barrier hemming them in. In reality, though, telling them no is more like a gateway to better living. “No, do not touch that electrical outlet.” “No, do not touch that hot stove.” “No, do not play in the middle of the street,” etc. Youthful ignorance and curiosity sometimes doesn’t see the protection, only the prevention in those words. Sometimes, we do the same with God. When the Heavenly Father says no to us, we often react not unlike a toddler throwing a tantrum. What’s your reaction when God says no? What happens when God closes a door and denies your seemingly good intentions? Do you still see the protection and preservation of his hand in that moment? Or do you see it as another instance of him preventing you from enjoying life and fulfilling a dream?