For some time now, I’ve been gradually adding more and more responsibility to my daughter. We started with little things, like picking up her toys after play time when she was little. Over the years, she gradually learned to do more: fold laundry, wake up on her own using an alarm clock, fix simple meals.

Growing up is a slow and steady process. Emily wasn’t born with a full skill set and the ability to use it. Over the years, I’ve gently given her more and more responsibility and teach her new things often.

Just like any teen, there are certain chores she doesn’t like. And sometimes she balks at my teaching her a new life skill. (She really dislikes particular house cleaning chores.)

I could allow her to only do the things she favors and skip out on the things she dislikes. But because I know she will need these skills and knowledge one day to live productively, I am teaching and leading her to learn more and practice what she’s learned. Because I love her.

Our heavenly Father is just the same.

He knows my flaws. He sees my shortcomings.

But He loves me too much to leave me unchanged.

photo credit: Public Domain Photos

Sometimes I fight against the pressure of change. I’ve often asked God, “Why??” I’ve even stepped out of His will for my life and gone off to do what I wanted to do, totally disregarding that I’d already heard Him tell me not to.

No matter how often I’ve questioned His ways, or how many times I’ve messed up, He never ceases to continue shaping me and teaching me the important lessons I need to learn. His love far exceeds my humanity.

There have been moments when I’ve wondered why God hasn’t given up on me yet. I’ve made so many mistakes and have gotten sidetracked so many times. Yet, He’s been the only sure and steady constant in my life. He’s always there. He never throws my mess-ups in my face. He only showers me with His love, encourages me to stand up and try again.

Because He loves me too much to leave me the way I am.

If you’re struggling with feelings of inadequacy, or thoughts of hopelessness because you’ve failed miserably once again, I have good news for you. You are loved by an amazing God who knows your ugliness, but loves you too much to leave you in it.