This year has brought unexpected limitations into my life. Foods, drinks, and even something as simple as makeup are now off-limits. I’ve had to give up my morning cup of coffee—a habit I didn’t think defined me until it was gone. And while I’m grateful that my health is stabilizing, I’ve had to adjust to a new normal, learning to live without many things I once enjoyed.
But in the midst of these changes, I’ve discovered a small gift—a specific boba tea that, somehow, doesn’t cause my body any issues. No reactions, no symptoms—just pure enjoyment. It’s a simple pleasure, and I find myself looking forward to it. Yet, every time I go to buy this tea, there’s a hesitation, a worry that maybe I shouldn’t indulge. Each time, I feel the urge to ask the Lord, “Is this okay?” but I often avoid the question, fearing He might say “no.”
I began to realize that my hesitation to ask Him for permission to enjoy something so small went deeper than just boba tea. I feared that if I asked, God might say “no” because He didn’t want me to have good things. Somewhere deep down, I wondered if He would withhold even small joys from me.
One day, as I sipped my tea, the Lord gently revealed a truth to my heart: I avoid asking because I’m afraid He’ll deny me the pleasure of something that brings me happiness. And that fear points to something bigger—a belief that maybe God doesn’t want to give me good gifts.
But God reminded me of James 1:17, which says, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” Our Lord is the giver of good gifts. He longs for us to come to Him with open hearts, asking Him for the desires of our hearts. He delights in giving us gifts, big and small, that bring joy to our lives.
So today, I encourage you: if there’s something you’re afraid to ask God for, remember who He is. He’s a Father who loves to bless His children. Don’t let fear or doubt keep you from asking. Approach Him with faith and trust that He is the giver of good gifts, and He delights in giving them to you.
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