First, I need to set the stage for this God-given revelation. January 2021 brings one of the most unprecedented New Year’s in our lifetimes. Perhaps that is why the advice of a preschooler carries rare weight and influence.
I do not suggest compiling traditional lists of resolutions. I’m not offering engaging predictions about what lies ahead. It’s so much better than that. This insight is for how we can better our lives, deepen our relationship with God, and strengthen our impact on the world in the 365 days ahead.
As a grandmother, I cherish having five millennial grandchildren (counting spouses) and five great-grandchildren. Naomi, one of my great-granddaughters, celebrated her fifth birthday days before Christmas. Today, I offer her uncanny spiritual wisdom.
Recently Naomi stopped playing with her sisters for a moment, glanced at me, and said: We should always obey the Holy Spirit. I stared at her, dumbfounded.
It seemed the perfect moment to say, “Whatcha talkin’ ‘bout, Willis?” Is anyone old enough to remember that line? Gary Coleman popularized it as Arnold on the 80’s TV sitcom, “Different Strokes.” My befuddled reaction fit those words perfectly.
I decided not to pepper Naomi with a slew of questions, although dozens leaped from my thoughts. Who taught you that? How is it you even know there is a Holy Spirit?
Our Nashville Christian Family readers are basically aware of the Holy Spirit’s presence as a miracle, a Gift. He fulfills the work of Jesus. He is the indwelling Presence of the Father, the Fountain of our spiritual gifts, our Guide. He is our Intercessor, with sighs too deep for words. (Romans 8:26)
Today, church as we knew it is on hold. There is no version of toddler church school for Naomi to attend. While the children are taught Bible stories, it is mostly kid-level versions of action stories. Like Jesus being born in Bethlehem. Or David’s five smooth stones against Goliath. Any explanation of how Naomi learned of the Holy Spirit completely missed me.
In 2021, we may continue to face unimaginable, unanticipated challenges. Naomi says we must allow the Holy Spirit to break through that noise and clutter, and I believe her. Naomi says: “Listen for His voice. Follow His instructions. And then, do whatever He tells you to do.”
Regina Prude is an inspirational speaker & author. Comments: [email protected] or POB 58795, Nashville, TN 37205. Facebook: www.facebook.com/reginaprude; Twitter: http://twitter.com/rprude.
