Our actions matter. Children watch, absorb, internalize, and learn. But perfection isn’t required. I grew up in an imperfect family with perfect provision.
My home was simultaneously uncertain and stable, chaotic and ordered, insecure and solid. We prayed before every meal, attended church on Sundays, and celebrated Christmas and Easter. My grandparents and cousins often gathered to swim, boat, and enjoy family treats like Coke floats, beans and applesauce, and snickerdoodles. There was boisterous laughter, hide-and-seek, theme parks, and sleepovers. It was magical.
But life is never just one thing (1 Peter 4:8). Struggles of addiction plagued our family, bills went unpaid, and divorce split our home. I learned a scarcity mentality, the stress of money, the need to shield myself from hurt and disappointment, a sincere doubt in marriage, and a lack of trust. But I also learned that love, faith, family, and traditions can have a greater influence—because of God.
In the mix of life, in this imperfect world, God never leaves us as He finds us. In the chaos, He can restore. It’s a work in progress, but He is persistent. In our imperfect, dysfunctional family, I found that in His love, provision is sufficient, restoration is possible, and love isn’t finite. God can make our imperfections perfect because “love covers a multitude of sins.”
Let God give you the perfect provision you need.
Suzie Smith is a Christ follower, wife, mother, grandmother, retired educator, and sports fan. She lives with her husband, Chris, in Bixby, Oklahoma, and attends Crossroads Fellowship Church. Her goal is to continue to grow and serve in this newfound freedom of retirement and share experiences with those she loves. You can find her blogging at Reflections of Hope: Experiencing God’s Goodness.