Naked and Unafraid
It’s human nature to look for something to hold on to, something that makes us feel secure. When we are tiny little humans, we’re given a beautiful example of where to go when afraid—we run to our parent’s arms. But as we age, these pictures are stripped away, and individualism takes center stage.
How often does taking control for ourselves let us down? Money can run out, relationships can fail, governments can make promises they can’t keep, and even our strength doesn’t last forever. We think these things give us peace, but instead, they often leave us feeling empty and confused.
This is what God was showing through Isaiah. Egypt and Cush boasted great power and might, creating a false sense of security for Israel. But ultimately, Egypt and Cush would fail miserably. God was teaching them—and us—that putting trust in anything but Him will always leave us disappointed. Every time. It reminds me of the singing book I read to my kids about a house built on sand. The house looks good at first, but when a storm comes, it comes crashing down.
Back to being a child. They teach us so much! When my girls need comfort, peace, security, love, or want to hang out, they jump into my arms. I’m not tooting my own horn as a dad here—that’s just the way they were created. To further observe this, studies like Frederick II’s 13th-century "forbidden experiment" and observations of 20th-century orphanages revealed that infants deprived of physical touch and emotional connection—despite receiving basic care like food—often experienced failure to thrive and even death. These findings underscore the critical role of human connection in early childhood survival and development (Montagu, 1971; Spitz, 1945). So where does this go when we become adults? Where is God in this? I believe God has been giving us clear and beautiful examples since birth on how to connect with others and Him. Scripture says we are His children (1 John 3:1) and that if we seek Him, we will find Him. So why don’t we believe that? Why aren’t we seeking?
The answer is TIME + TRUST.
We aren’t spending time with Him. As a result, like the "forbidden experiment," we are dying—not physically, but spiritually. Dying to our retirement fund, our success, our spouse, our friends, our namesake, our security, and our own ways—yet not truly living. So here’s my question and challenge:
Never Finished Challenge
Where are you putting your trust?
I encourage you to consider what it would be like to trust the One who never fails wholly. Jump back into His arms, ask Him to hold you, and enjoy His presence. He looks at you with a love far more significant than I have for my incredible daughters, whom I hold and admire with all my heart.
Memorize Proverbs 3:5-6 this week:
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
Write it on a note card and put it in your car. Ask God to show you how to trust Him.
If you’re not a believer, and you’re feeling a pull, that’s the Holy Spirit drawing you near to the family of God. Welcome! You are no longer tied down or controlled by sin. Reach out to someone close to you who knows Jesus and let them know what has happened—or reach out to me!
For your pocket: Follow Him, and life will begin.
What does today say about God?
I am so amazed at the strength God gave Isaiah to be set apart and vulnerable in his culture. But that’s how much He cares about His people. He loves us with a love that is beyond explanation. Every time you see a child loved by their mom or dad, multiply that love by a million, and that’s how much God loves you. Thank you, Jesus!=