Helicopter Faith

When my son was four years old, all he wanted for Christmas was a remote-controlled helicopter. Once Christmas finally arrived, he could hardly sit through our pre-gift-giving devotional and prayer time. As soon as we uttered “amen,” he dove under the tree, tearing open his presents. And there among them was the coveted remote-controlled helicopter.

He promptly attempted to fly it, only to watch it plummet to the ground. Disappointment clouded his face as he declared, “It’s broken.” Despite our attempts to reassure him that it was not broken but simply needed batteries, he struggled to understand, deciding it was useless because it didn’t work like he thought it would.

How often do we act like four-year-olds, clinging to our preconceived ideas of how things should unfold? Whether it’s a career opportunity, a life partner, parenthood, or some other new venture, we mustn’t abandon hope when reality diverges from our desires. Instead, we must trust that God has an outstanding plan for us, even if we don’t understand it.

In 2 Kings 5:1–13, we find the story of Naaman, a Syrian general with leprosy who journeyed to Jerusalem, seeking Elisha’s healing. Naaman nearly missed his blessing because it came wrapped in a process he didn’t expect: washing seven times in the disgusting waters of the Jordan River.

After we have communicated our requests to the Lord, we should be ready to accept his response in whatever form it comes. God knows what he is doing. For Naaman, the Lord wanted to deal with two things at the same time: Naaman’s healing and his pride.

If you are struggling to let go of your expectations, ask your Christian community for help. God knows that we need reminders throughout our faith journey, which is why he created us to help each other. Reach out to your trusted brother or sister in Christ when you need to talk and pray through whatever burdens your heart.

God has a great plan for you. Don’t miss out on his magnificent blessings just because you don’t expect them to come the way they do.

Father, I repent of my need for control. I don’t want to miss what you are doing simply because of pride, fear, or expectation. Lord, have your way in my heart. Take over my mind and soul and use them to do your work. Amen.

Lord, I’m getting out of my own way and trusting you all the way.