The Trust and Courage of a Child

My grandson is the most adorable little toddler you have ever seen. The other day, a few of us were on a deck that had a few stairs. He was going back and forth pushing a little cart and having a big time. As he headed around the corner towards the stairs, I was the closest, so I got up to make sure he didn’t drive down off the stairs.  

At first I tried to block him a little, but he started to fuss, so I said, "But there are stairs right here.” When he heard that, he abandoned the cart and held up his hand as if to say “Okay, well, let’s go! What are we waiting for?” So, of course, I took his tiny hand and off we went.

Such trust and courage at the same time! It immediately reminded me of what I think God is trying to teach me. His large presence in my life means that wherever he leads I can have plenty of trust and courage to go with him. Like the Good Shepherd with his sheep, his presence makes all the difference.
 
I have been pondering the connections between John 10, and Psalm 23, and Proverbs 3. I can trust the Good Shepherd who knows me by name and who delights in and cares for me.
 

“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep.” John 10:14-15
 
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
    for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk
    through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
    for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.” Psalm 23:1-4
 
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart
    and lean not on your own understanding;
 in all your ways submit to him,
    and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6

 
The classic book A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23 by Phillip Keller is well worth the read. I am re-reading it now and desiring to internalize the truths of Jesus truly being my shepherd. Like my grandson, I want to be quick to acknowledge his powerful presence and quick to take on the next adventure with him.
 
Holding up my tiny hand,
 
Ellen

Written July 19, 2024

Ellen Blaketrust in God, courage in faith, Good Shepherd, Psalm 23 reflection, John 10:14-15, Proverbs 3:5-6, spiritual trust, childlike faith, God’s guidance, lessons from children, trusting God’s presence, biblical encouragement, faith and courage, walking with God, Christian living, shepherd and sheep metaphor, Phillip Keller book, A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23, spiritual growth, leaning on God’s understanding, faith lessons from toddlers, trust and courage in Christ, God’s care and protection, following God’s path, Christian reflections, embracing God’s guidance, spiritual adventure with God