Toddler parenting is fairly new in our household. Communication with a stubborn opinionated two-year old takes a lot of goldfish bribes, patience, deep breathing, and love. We have found a few key phrases we consistently speak to our daughter, N, in order to get our point across in a loving fashion. In the process, we have found a picture of ourselves with our Heavenly Father.
“You’re safe.”

When N falls and looks up at us, we tell her she’s safe, imitating a baseball umpire. This phrase however, refers to things much deeper than childhood scrapes and bruises. When we stumble in our faith and look up, Psalm 91:4 tells us “With his feathers he will cover you, under his wings you will find safety.” 

“Fun/No Fun.”

When an emotional power struggle rears its head, we tell N she can “obey and have fun with us OR not obey and have no fun (aka time out).” Likewise, our desires can cause a power struggle with our Father, who simply responds, “If you love me, you will keep my commands” (John 14:15). Disobedience will instead bring consequences.

“Look at me.”

When N is running full speed in her own direction and we need to get her attention, we will say “Look at me.” Sometimes we have to get on her level to disrupt her play. How many times is this me, caught up in my own desires and the Lord has to get my attention? John 8:47 says, “Whoever is of God hears the words of God.” O may I be more attentive to the messages the Lord has for me!

Even though I know it’s just a season we are passing through, I am thankful to be reminded that God’s love is sovereign, gracious, and merciful. What parallels are you seeing in your season of life that reflect the Father’s love for us?

Jennifer Perrin