give until it hurts

I’m realizing that the reason that God made babies so darn cute and lovable is so that you won’t throw them out the window at 3:00 a.m…. even if the thought crosses your sleep-deprived, frustrated, at-your-wits-end mind.

I love this little boy.  I just forgot how demanding babies are. When it comes to caring for infants, the phrase “give until it hurts” comes to mind.

In my normal life,  I’m accustomed to giving until it hurts.  However, that’s often where I stop. Once the task, responsibility, or service becomes painful, then I give up.  I just can’t do it. I don’t have time or energy to do it. So I give up.

I’m giving right now, and it hurts!  Of course, there’s no backing out now. This little boy needs me… and I do love to care for him. Even when it hurts, I can push myself to do it. I cry out to God for the strength or the patience to do it. I remind myself that it’s not forever… this highly demanding and sleepless state is only for a season.

It occurred to me this morning (at 4:30 a.m.) that I am being trained to give until it hurts… and to keep on giving in the midst of the pain. God has many plans for me;  some will be incredibly trying and difficult. I will only be able to do them if I trust in Him. I must allow His strength to excel in me and accomplish the work for me.

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.   Galatians 6:9-10