Brian and I recently had a blast keeping Piper for part of the week while our kids were in Florida. They may have had the Disney passes, but if the truth be told, we felt as if we were the ones on the magical carpet ride.
We played hide-n-seek in her pink tent, read lots of books, and enjoyed the great outdoors together. One of my favorite outings was a mini shopping trip to Target. I’ve always looked forward to taking my grandchildren to pick out a little something special for themselves. (I have my sweet Aunt Shirley to thank for this desire as I’ve never forgotten how it felt when she purchased a baby doll for me “just because” while shopping at a NC mall eons ago. Thank you again, Aunt Shirley.)
So there we were. The three of us strolling the Target aisles. Brian and I took turns picking out toys we thought she’d enjoy. And she did! For about 3 seconds. None of the toys we showed her were extravagant but I’ll admit we did try to choose those we felt would bring a smile of delight.
Among other things, we “offered” her:
- A practically life-sized Minnie Mouse
- Pink push mobile with all the bells and whistles (literally)
- A toddler-sized guitar with real strings to strum
But this is what Piper refused to release after the normal 3 second drop:
Two of the homeliest and cheapest baby dolls Target had to offer.
I couldn’t help but wonder how Piper ended up settling for these two dolls when we wanted to give her so much more.
And yet, all too often I find myself doing the same thing with my heavenly Father. While I’m not a name-it and claim-it kind of girl, there were many years my spiritual pendulum swung too far in the opposite direction, suppressing the joy that came from fully embracing all God had for me as His daughter.
I’m slowly learning that when I settle for the “good enough” blessings in my life I’m not only cheating myself out of God’s best, but I’m also cheating others out of them as well for nothing we receive is to remain in us — they are to flow through us for God’s glory.
Is there an area in your life where you’re settling for the $3.49 blessing even though your heavenly Father stands ready to pour out His priceless gifts to you — not only for you, but for the benefit of others and the furtherance of the Gospel of Jesus Christ?
If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children,
how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to
those who ask him! Matthew 7:11 ESV
Love this post!
Thanks for stopping by Rene!
GREAT post, Cathy! I know I've settled, but I hope I'm getting better. Loved seeing cute Piper, and praying Brian is feeling better!
Ahhhh, What a great post. Cutsie girl too!
It's truly a journey, isn't it Susan?
Thank you for your prayers for Brian. He is feeling better. 🙂
Thanks, Marcia. We think she's pretty cute — and she's a sweetie too.
I look forward to seeing you Thursday morning!
What a perfect picture of how our Father wants to lavish us with the best–just because He love us–and yet we take the ugly leftovers.
Beautiful, beautiful Piper. 🙂 I know y'all had fun!
I love the word "lavish" — perfect in describing everything to do with our Father.
We had a blast with sweet Piper!
Thanks for stopping by on what I'm sure is a very busy week for you. 🙂
I've been reading a little on Holly Gerth's blog about God-sized dreams, and this makes me think…we pray for what we want when God wants so much more for us! Piper is so precious! I know y'all enjoyed the time with her!
Wow Cathy!
Guilty! Uuggh! And, you know what, God is challenging me to be more bold. Great spiritual application here sister. Thank you!
Love this line, "for nothing we receive is to remain in us — they are to flow through us for God's glory."
true, true! Tell sweet Piper thanks too! Love, Hester 😉
Celeste, I love Holly's blog too. I need to subscribe! Thanks so much for sharing. 🙂
Hester, I gave Piper a big "thank you" hug for you today. ha!