On Wednesday nights, my husband and I sometimes attend services at the church where our youngest son is the children’s and youth pastor. At the end of the sermon, the congregation is invited to come forward to the front pews for a time of prayer.
Some of the small children often go up and sit on the steps leading to the main platform while church members give their prayer requests. My six-year-old granddaughter, Ava, and my two-year-old grandson, Nolan, usually join their friends there.
On nights when there are numerous prayer requests, the kids get the wiggles, so a few of the parents usually sit with them. On this particular night, the steps were crowded. My son and daughter-in-law were sitting off to the side. I had a good view of my grandchildren, so I peeked during prayer to make sure they were okay. That’s when I noticed that Nolan had gotten up during the prayer and wandered across the platform.
When he came back to our side, I watched as he looked for his sister—but he didn’t find her. I could see fear creep across his little face. He searched a second time without seeing Ava or his parents. That’s when I saw panic set in—especially when he tried to make his way through the crowded steps. I could tell he was on the verge of tears.
And then I heard him yell, “Mama! I want you!” I watched the relief on his face as he saw her coming to get him.
I understood how that little guy felt, because on so many occasions when I’ve been afraid, I’ve called out, “God, I want You! I need You!”
God’s Word says it best:
1. He’s available.
You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. (Jeremiah 29:13)
2. He’s trustworthy.
What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee. (Psalm 56:3)
3. He’s ready to help us.
Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10)
Are you afraid today? Just as my little grandson knew that if he’d call out for help, his mama or daddy would come running, we can count on God to come running whenever we call. And, oh my, what sweet relief when we know that God’s help is on the way!
