As I Watched Children Play
I found myself captivated by their world of imagination.
With their arms outstretched, they “drove” invisible cars, their faces lit with joy, completely lost in the moment.
They had no worries about what happened yesterday or tomorrow’s uncertainties.
All that mattered was the freedom to play and enjoy the day.
I couldn’t help but notice their clothes.
Shoes covered in dirt, trousers with torn knees, and tops with phrases they didn’t even recognize.
As far as I could tell, they simply didn’t care.
As I thought about this, I considered their parents, especially the mothers who carefully chose these clothes.
They likely noticed the rips and stains, perhaps even scolding their children to be more careful.
But despite the warnings, the kids returned each day with the same routine, unaware of the effort and cost behind their outfits.
Isn’t your Heavenly Father much the same with you?
Could it be that, like these children, you are unaware of how much He provides for you, in ways both seen and unseen?
But if you call God your Father you acknowledge yourselves His children, to be guided by His wisdom and to be obedient in all things, knowing that His love is changeless. [1]
God Knows What You Need Before You Even Ask
He provides for you, not just in material ways but in the spiritual garments that cover you throughout life.
Jesus reminds you of this in Matthew 6:25-34, urging you not to worry about what you will wear, eat, or drink, for your Heavenly Father knows that you need these things.
Instead, He invites you to seek first His kingdom and righteousness, trusting that all these things will be added to you.
In the same way, God dresses you with His love, peace, and providence, often without your conscious awareness.
For “In the matchless gift of His Son, God has encircled the whole world with an atmosphere of grace as real as the air which circulates around the globe,” [2] ensuring that, like the children playing without a care, you have what you need to navigate your life.
But Like Those Children, You Aren’t Always Careful
You stumble and fall, soiling and tearing the garments of grace that God has lovingly provided.
Yet, just as a parent mends or replaces a child’s torn clothes, God doesn’t abandon you in your weakness. [3]
“However much a shepherd may love his sheep, He loves His sons and daughters more,” [4] always ready to step in, to repair what is broken, and to remind you that His grace is sufficient.
Sometimes, God May Even Allow You To Keep Your Torn Clothes
Not as a punishment but as a lesson.
Just as a parent might let a child wear a patched-up shirt to remind them to be more careful, God can use your experiences to refine you, so “that you may be cleansed, purified, and every spot and blemish removed—not even a wrinkle left in your Christian character.” [5]
Such moments should remind you that even in your trials, God is present, providing you with what you need to overcome.
As You Reflect On Your Life
Consider the “clothes” that God has provided, mended, replaced, or not replaced.
Peace amid storms, comfort in sorrow, wisdom gained through trials, or unresolved struggles to teach you resilience and patience.
Take a moment to thank Him for His provision, even when you were unaware.
As you move forward, rest in the assurance that your Heavenly Father has already prepared what you need.
