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“God loves your children more than you do.”

These words were posted on social media the day before my kiddos went back to school. Our district gave us the choice to begin the 2020-2021 school year virtually or in person. Though it was an extremely tough decision, we ultimately decided for all three boys to attend on campus.

This decision came with much thought and prayer (and from three voices pleading to go back), but I was still left with mixed emotions–feeling confident one day and anxious the next: “God, are we making the ‘right’ decision? What is the ‘right’ decision? What happens if we aren’t? You’ll adjust, that’s what happens. What if it’s too late and something happens to them? The Lord is in control, Jennifer.”

If others could have listened to my thoughts that week, that is what they would have heard. And, just as I was questioning our choice, once again, the night before … these words showed up.

God loves your children more than you do.

Yes, I thought! It’s hard to fathom–I simply cannot understand a love that is greater than the love I have for my children–but Jesus’ love is, and I wholeheartedly choose to believe that! However, submitting to it can be a difficult thing for us as parents.

That night I was reminded that in any obstacle, trial or adversity our children face, including the loss of a parent, we want to fix it. We want to ensure they are safe. We feel as if every decision we make for them can change the course that God has set out for them. I may have given birth to my son and am raising my step sons, but He created them. How little faith I had to think I controlled so much! God’s promises and plans for our children are bigger than any challenge or pandemic that comes our way. I’ll admit, there are times my worry gets the best of me … the impact of my son losing his father at such a young age … but there is no trial or challenge that can stop what the Lord has planned for him – He is sovereign! He will complete the good work he began in our children. He says so in Philippians, chapter one.

“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 1:6 (NIV)

God sees things we can’t see. Only He knows the good plan and what it will take to get there. We, as humans, aren’t strong enough to withstand seeing too much of God’s plan, including His plan for our children – we would think the journey is too daunting, the cost too high. God wants to lead us through his plan daily, showing us the way and the truth.

“I will instruct you and teach you in the ways you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.”
Psalm 32:8 (NIV)

“Since you are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of your name lead and guide me.”
Psalm 31:3 (NIV)

Let’s choose to believe that the Lord is ALWAYS in control, and that His plans truly are the best plans. Our children are watching and learning. Though I struggle with wanting to be in control, I pray my children see a mom who trusts the Lord enough to let go of my own plans and submit to His. When we release our grip on our children and in to the Lord’s hands we are modeling our own belief in His goodness and provision, and a profound trust in His love – a love far greater than we can ever imagine.

Lord, remind our fragile hearts that we can trust you at all times, with our lives and the lives of our children. Though it can be difficult to fathom, you love our children more than we do and have a great plan for their lives. Help us to submit to your will for them and give us peace in knowing you are always working for your glory and our good. Amen.