Standing in Awe

A few weeks ago I wrote a blog about my struggle with being overly judgmental and my striving to be intentionally more curious to combat the struggle. (You can read all about it here: Curiosity > Judgment).

If we were all completely honest with ourselves I think we could agree that it’s a joint struggle that we might not think about much. We need more tools in our toolbox to help us work towards curiosity. One of these tools I came to see through the eyes of my precious baby boy.

He’s now 9 months old and life seems to have taken on a brand new hue of excitement and light for him. He’s noticing everything now! From the birds in our backyard to the raindrops we felt while sitting on our back patio. He has to always know what’s going on and wants to always try and experience it for himself. Aren’t babies the embodiment of curiosity? I’ve also noticed that the simpletest of things leave him in complete awe!

It doesn’t matter if it’s watching my husband or I eat, or listening to his dada play the guitar. If his attention span was any longer, he’d just stare and take it all in forever! Lately, he’s taken on a new noise when he’s really excited. It’s a mixture between hyperventilating and squealing. He does it when his food is taking too long to prepare or when we’re showing him something new. It’s so exciting to see his excitement!

Isn’t our God the same? Don’t you think He smiles extra big when we’re left in awe of the simplest things around us? I like to imagine that He placed the mountains, island sunsets, and soaring eagles in their places simply to see the look of awe and wonder on our faces. He’s a Father after all, and don’t we, as parents, simply love it when we get to see that same look on our children’s faces?

What I’m trying to say here is that I think we can use awe and wonder as tools to combat the judging tendencies we all face. I know that when I focus more on the simplest of gifts God has given me, I’m just less likely to even be aware of negative things that bring out the “judgy” in me. As cliche as it sounds, counting our blessings refocuses our minds and brings us in closer connection to the great Giver. When we strengthen our connection with Him, He wants nothing more than to help and aide us in our battles. Afterall, He has promised to fight for us!

“The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.” Exodus 14:14

I pray, today, that you are encouraged to stand in awe of the Creator instead of turning towards the judgemental attitude that I know I struggle with on a daily basis. You’re not alone my friend!

Have a listen to one of my favorite praise and worship songs that helps to drive this point home. This rendition is simple and gorgeous! Jonny,Janice,Josh,Shela - Let My Words Be Few