But I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me. Psalm 131:2
Newborns require constant attention and when they have a need, like being hungry, they let you know! And they keep letting you know until their demand is met. An infant doesn’t have the capacity to set their immediate wants or needs aside and a good parent will eagerly provide what is necessary for its wellbeing.
Part of the maturing process is the ability to self-soothe. The child no longer needs an immediate response but trusts that care will be coming at the due time. Paul picks up on this too as he contrasts spiritual infants with maturing believers that don’t have to be fed milk.
As we grow in our faith, we become less demanding of God that He instantly give us our perceived needs. We learn to trust. We learn to be content. The ability to calm and soothe our soul comes from our faith in Him who supplies our needs; it comes from our deepening relationship with the Spirit who lives within.
I sometimes revert to being a whiny brat, demanding my way with God. I have needs or hurts I feel should be addressed and I become childish, instead of childlike in my faith. But through the years I have seen Him provide and I have received His care. Increasingly I am learning to calm and quiet my soul because I am confident of His love and power. I am becoming content with His Presence.
1 Response