“It’s a boy!” announces the nurse in the delivery room.  Tears, smiles and hugs all around.

The arrival announcement may be done but the words of advice are just getting started.

“When you get home, you will want to buy this particular brand of formula and use this specific brand of diapers,” she begins holding up the samples.  “Then you will want to be sure to feed him every 3 hours.  No more. No less. ”

“On his first birthday make sure to have chocolate cake with a little tractor theme.  Send him to preschool as soon as he is allowed.  Make sure he wears the brand of shoes that the other kids are wearing so he fits in but doesn’t stand out.  He should go to a Christian elementary school and be sure to get him into the most prestigious Christian high school in your community,” she continues.

“Start him in soccer at age 5 and baseball at age 7.  He should play on traveling teams of both and when he reaches junior high he should play basketball and football.  Work to get him a scholarship in football because his chances for the pros are better in football.  Let him start dating at age 17 and get him a used vehicle for his 16th birthday and the newest model of computer for his graduation.  Any questions?”

I’m sure you’re wondering what nurse would dare tell a parent exactly the steps that they should take when raising their child minutes after the delivery.  A little help now and then upon request is welcomed but not every tiny detail as to how to plan every move of his life!  However, that is sometimes exactly what I do to God.

I know that He has a plan but I get a little anxious about it.  I’m afraid He may not do it right so I give Him a few pointers as to how I think things would work out best.  The Bible tells us to pray without ceasing.  It tells us God knows the desires of our heart.  He wants us to have a close relationship with Him.  Well, then, I don’t think it hurts to give a few suggestions on how I think things will work out for the best.

Lord, I know that you know what’s best so I’ll stop giving you my best-scenario suggestions.  But just in case you are looking for me,  I’ll be right here if you need anything.  🙂