Kicking and Screaming

Training for Today: Run 2 Miles

Devotion: Kicking and Screaming

What’s the worst tantrum you’ve ever witnessed? The grocery store check-out line? Your own living room? A playground somewhere? No matter the location, we’ve all seen some pretty dramatic tantrums. Arms flailing, legs kicking, fists pounding, feet stomping. Vocal sounds we never thought possible. As I’ve witnessed tantrums, I’ve found myself silently chiding the little one and thinking, “Give it up.”


Yes, most of the time, we assume the performer of a tantrum to be a child. But, if I’m honest with myself, I’ve been guilty of the kicking and screaming behaviors that accompany the worst of tantrums. Perhaps my tantrums haven’t been public outbursts or physical demonstrations, but that’s not the point. People have tantrums when they feel that their freedoms are violated, they can’t have something they deserve, or something isn’t fair. Yep, I’ve been there during this grieving process. Have you?

As I picture myself kicking and screaming at the will of God, I can also picture my Father in heaven looking at me and thinking, “Give it up.” Literally! God wants us to give up the fight against His will in our lives. He wants us to trust Him. He wants us to rest in the knowledge that His hands hold our lives firmly in their grasp. Read what God tells us in Matthew 11:28-30:

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

What a pleasant way of saying it! Let’s repent of the sinful thoughts, words, and actions that we’ve performed in our tantrums. Jesus is right there with the promise of forgiveness and rest from our burdens. He’s there with the promise of His empty cross. And, He’s there with the promise of eternity. Man, I am in awe of His goodness. Remember those reasons for tantrums? They sure don’t apply when it comes to the hope of heaven. Through Christ, I’m given more freedom than ever. Through Christ, I get more than I deserve; it isn’t fair that Christ declared my victory over death! Through Christ, I can let go of the earthly pains that haunt me and truly give it up!

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, forgive me for my tantrums. Forgive me for resisting your will and thinking that I know better. Lead me to trust in your will and rest in your promises. Amen.