My two-year-old granddaughter was beyond tired and in desperate need of a nap—but she didn’t want to take a nap. I knew it was exactly what she needed and that nothing else was going to help her disposition. As I carried her upstairs to her bedroom, she kicked and screamed, “No Gigi! No nap!” Once inside her bedroom, she refused to lie down in her toddler bed. She sat on the floor in defiance, with her arms crossed and a scowl on her face. There was no way she was going to lie down! I took her Minni Mouse pillow off her bed and put it on the plush rug on the floor where she was sitting. I lay down on the rug and tried to coax her into my open arms. She refused to comply. As she sat next to me, with arms still crossed, I began singing gently and softly. Her little toddler body finally relaxed and she fell asleep sitting up! Then she toppled into my open arms and settled in for a much-needed nap.Two hours later, she woke up with a smile on her face. She was sweet, calm, happy, refreshed, and ready to play. My precious angel was back.

This incident made me think about my relationship with God. He always knows what I need. He always knows what’s best for me. When I am stressed, weary, and overwhelmed, He is beside me. He speaks softly and gently, calling me to rest in his open arms. When I surrender to Him and give Him my cares and concerns, I find refreshment and peace for my soul.

In Matthew 11:28, Jesus gives us a promise: “Come to me all who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest.”

Are you weary today? Maybe it’s time for a nap!

Crystal Bowman