I Took Them Up In My Arms

When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son. The more I called them, the more they went from me; they kept sacrificing to the Baals, and offering incense to idols.

Yet it was I who taught Ephraim to walk, I took them up in my arms; but they did not know that I healed them.

I let them with cords of human kindness, with bands of love. I was to them like those who lift infants to their cheeks. I bent down to them and fed them.

Hosea 11:1-4

Remember the days, years ago when your children were learning to walk. First they showed their readiness by pulling themselves up and taking a tentative step or two. As parents we held our hands out to them. We praised every effort and attempt they made. We never grew discouraged, nor did we give up until they learned to walk.

So it is with our heavenly Father. He does not give up on us. Our heavenly Father stands before us with outstretched arms, encouraging us toward holiness, eager to catch us when we stumble. He picks us up when we fall. He is never discouraged with our progress, nor will He ever give up. The more difficult we find the process, the more care and kindness he expends.

We can’t run the Christian race until we learn to walk.

Our Daily Bread – September 8, 2006