When Best and Safe Don't Match Up
“I know you want what’s best for the lass, but I think ye’re confusing the idea of best with the idea of safe.”
When I read that line as I was editing my book this past summer, it stopped me in my tracks.
In the story, the main character, Moira, believes God is leading her to do something that could put her in harm’s way. No one else thinks it’s a good idea—in fact, if she chooses to follow through with what she believes God is leading her to do, it will strain many of her relationships in the community. And even sever some as well as put her job in jeopardy. And she’s in that situation because she is doing what her mother requested she do.
I had to sit with that idea for a minute. Oh, how I could relate.
So many times over the years has it seemed that following through and obeying what God was leading me—or our family—to do, would put us at risk of danger. Sometimes literal danger, others it was more that our social capital would be endangered. And I don’t know about you, but I feel He’s led us that way a lot very recently.
And you know what I’ve realized? While it isn’t easy, I am ok with following God into danger and uncertainty myself. But, my kids? That’s a whole other kettle of fish.
When my children are following the Lord, and I see Him leading them somewhere that feels unsafe—or puts what we’ve worked to build at risk (this could be relationships or opportunities)—it’s infinitely harder. Even more so when I feel they are put in that situation because they are doing what my husband and I have asked them to do, or trained them up to believe.
Our children are getting older. All three are either teens or pre-teen. So, these instances are increasing in frequency more and more. What do I do when the Mama Bear in me wants to jump in and rescue…protect…when I feel God is leading them into uncertainty, or potential danger? That mission trip. Reaching out to that neighbor. Sharing their faith openly at school.
Well, it brings to mind a scene from The Chronicles of Narnia.
“Aslan is a lion- the Lion, the great Lion."
"Ooh" said Susan. "I'd thought he was a man. Is he-quite safe? I shall feel rather nervous about meeting a lion"...
"Safe?" said Mr Beaver ..."Who said anything about safe? 'Course he isn't safe. But he's good. He's the King, I tell you.”
C. S. Lewis, The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe.
Friends, our God is not a tame God. He isn’t a God of safety. But He is a good God. I think of the leader in our denomination whose son was killed in an accident on the mission field. Our people who have tragically been killed sitting in their church services. Martyrs who have died because of their faith. People who have been shunned and completely cut off from their families for choosing to follow Jesus.
God never promises us that we will not come to harm in the Christian life. In fact, he promises us hardship!
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33b
The key is found at the end of that verse: He has overcome the world! If we are followers of Jesus, we know how our story ends. He promises to work all things together for our good (Romans 8:28)—which means our eternal good.
We can trust our futures—and our children’s futures—to Him, because He has already won the war. And He knows exactly what needs to happen when in order to help us reach that ultimate good of eternity with Him.
So, when you’re tempted to jump in and protect your child…or yourself…from a potential danger you see in obeying where He leads, remember that He will never lead you astray. He has your, and your children’s, ultimate goodness in mind. And chances are, your child isn’t going to have to die for his or her faith. But they may have to suffer strained friendships. Maybe even severed ones. They may have to endure ridicule, or miss out on what seems to be a perfect opportunity in order to obey what God has called them to do. But in the light of His incredible goodness and grace, those things are small prices to pay.
So, it’s up to us to decide: Are we willing to obey what He is asking us to do, no matter the consequences?
Blessings and grace,
Jen
P.S. If you want to see how things turned out for Moira, that book just released this week! If you want to learn more, you can by clicking here.
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