Arise, SHINE, Be Encouraged

I am convinced that God invented the seesaw to teach us valuable lessons about life and being in relationship with others.

“For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11, NIV)

 

As a child, I loved playing on the seesaw at the park. I remember the fun of going up and down and moving around to find the right balance point so I could sit suspended in the air. I am convinced that God invented the seesaw to teach us valuable lessons about life and being in relationship with others. I can see how He used the seesaw to teach me about: (1) having the right heart, motivation and attitude (2) developing trust through positioning on the seesaw (3) surrendering, and seeking balance through compromise, give and take (4) resting in Him and being still (5) experiencing freedom and floating in the air (6) finding joy, wonder and excitement as I gazed down at the world below my feet. As I think back, some kids, filled with a spirit of pride, arrogance and desire to control, always wanted to sit far back on the seat and keep you stranded high in the air. Others, filled with a spirit of humility, submission, and self-sacrifice, worked hard to find balance. I admit, riding up and down was fun but the real attraction for me was finding balance and resting in the air.

How simple, yet profound these lessons are as they teach us about life, ourselves and others. On the playground, God uses the seesaw to test and examine our hearts. Next, He checks to see if we will trust and obey Him. Then, He asks us to surrender and be still. In a state of balance, He grants us freedom from the demands and cares of the world. As we float in the air, He shows us excitement, joy, and peace. On God’s seesaw, there is no room for pride and arrogance, which can cause God to remove His hand of perfect balance (rest). In contrast, a humble, clean, and pure heart is rewarded with God’s favor, freedom, joy, and peace.

Child of God, I encourage you to ask God to give you a humble heart. In the meantime, find a seesaw, invite God to be your partner, and experience the ride of your life!

 

Lord, thank You for teaching me valuable lessons on the playground. Continue to teach me to have the faith of a child, giving me a mind and heart that trusts in You at all times. Through the blood of Jesus and in the name of Jesus I pray, amen.