Daily Devotional for August 2, 2018
No Cheese for You
“How about slicing this cheese, Jonah?” Mom said as Jonah helped her prepare sandwiches for lunch.
“Sure,” said Jonah. He got out the cheese cutter and went to work.
As Jonah began slicing cheese, two-year-old Boyd ran into the kitchen. “Some!” he said, holding out his hand.
Mom shook her head. “Sorry, Boyd. No cheese for you. It makes you sick.”
Boyd frowned and ignored her. “Some, pwease!” he begged, tugging on Jonah’s arm.
“I can’t give you any, Boyd,” Jonah replied. “Mom said no.” Boyd fussed a little more, but then he walked away, obviously not happy. “Too bad Boyd doesn’t really understand why he can’t have cheese,” said Jonah. “If he knew it was because he’s allergic to it, he might not get upset when you tell him no.”
“Parents often have to make decisions their kids can’t understand,” Mom said, turning to look at Jonah.
“You’re talking about the party last night, aren’t you?” he asked.
Mom nodded. “When you asked if you could go, Dad and I didn’t say no to be mean. Like we told you—based on our experience and knowledge, we felt it wasn’t the kind of party that would be wise for you to go to. That’s why we said no.”
“I think I understand better now,” Jonah said. “Well, at least I understand that you have a reason for not always letting me have what I want, just like you have a reason for not letting Boyd have what he wants.”
“Good.” Mom smiled and gave Jonah a quick hug. “God has placed us over you to teach and protect you. We’re doing our best to teach you about Jesus and how to live in light of everything He’s done for you. Someday we won’t be able to make decisions for you. As you get older, you’ll have to decide for yourself—by praying and studying God’s Word—what choices line up with following Jesus.”
Jonah nodded. “I know, and until then I’ll try to remember that you have your reasons when you won’t let me do things.” He grinned. “If I forget, you can just tell me, ‘No cheese for you.’ That should help me remember!” – Hope L. Aderman
How about you?
Do you ever think your parents make rules for no reason? God puts parents in our lives so they can use their knowledge and experience to teach us about Jesus and train us in the way He wants us to go. We may not always understand their reasons, but we can trust Jesus to use their guidance to help us grow. Trust Him to help you obey your parents.
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