My two-year-old niece loves to eat. Ever since she weaned off milk and started on solids, she has eaten with great delight and gusto. Watching her eat makes even the simplest food look delicious. Yet, despite this new independence she has gained, at the end of the day she always returns to her mother’s arms, where she rests in her embrace, secure and comforted, completely at peace.

Psalm 131 gives us this tender picture of a child in the arms of a loving parent. David, the psalmist, describes a heart that is neither proud nor restless, a soul that has learned to be still. He says, “I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvellous for me. But I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother.” This is not a picture of immaturity, but of trust. It is the picture of a child who no longer cries for what he/she wants, but rests content in the presence of his/her parent.

In the same way, David invites Israel, and us, to find that same contentment and hope in God. We may face many uncertainties, struggles, or ambitions that stir our hearts, yet the invitation is to return again and again to the Father’s embrace. True peace is not found in self-sufficiency or worldly success, but in quiet confidence in our Father, who gives us true security and comfort.

Are you in the midst of a storm, feeling tossed by worries or burdens? Come to the Father, He is your safe harbour. Are you in a season where everything seems to go your way, where your strength and plans seem enough? Come to the Father, He reminds you that His care and wisdom are greater than your achievements. Are you feeling forgotten, abandoned, or alone? Come to the Father, He remembers you, comforts you, and holds you close. May you find rest today, not in doing more, but in being still before our Father who loves you most.

Prayer:

Dear Father, calm my restless heart. Teach me to trust You like a child resting in her mother’s arms. When I am tempted to strive, help me to surrender. When I feel weak or forgotten, remind me of Your constant love. Quiet my soul, Lord, until I find peace in You alone. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.