Women’s Devotion: A Baby’s Cry

A Baby’s Cry

Think of the last time you heard a baby cry.

While this sound is uncomfortable for anyone to hear, it’s vital for a baby’s survival since it is their sole method of communication. We may wish a newborn could simply tell us what is wrong, yet an infant’s cry makes us stop what we are doing, listen, and evaluate our course of action. Caregivers develop a deeper understanding of, and therefore relationship with their baby through this intimate form of communication.

In a similar way, God constantly seeks our attention in unique and sometimes uncomfortable ways. This is not out of punishment, rather, God uses circumstances to prepare our hearts and minds even if it interrupts our own earthy plans and comforts. We know that God could simply tell us what to do, but he often requires that we stop, listen and discern.

Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us, “’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”

We pray,
God, help me to hear your call when you are seeking my attention. I understand that sometimes your plans for me may cause discomfort, but they also include more joy, peace, and spiritual growth than I can imagine.

This month’s devotion was written by Kim Afrank. Kim and her husband, Preston, have been members of Sheridan Lutheran Church since January of 2011. The Afranks recently welcomed the arrival of their first child, Micah James, on July 2. Kim is the Director of Career Development at Nebraska Wesleyan University and enjoys supporting students as they develop their career plans. Preston works at Haberfeld Associates in Lincoln. Kim serves on Sheridan’s Women’s Ministry Team and Preston serves on Church Council.