9 Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?” ~ 1 Kings 3:9

A young teacher's aide working with emotionally disturbed children was deeply committed to her role, aiming to “love the children better." Despite her tolerant nature, one student tested her patience significantly. The seven-year-old boy’s actions hurt her deeply when he struck her. Over time, he increasingly withdrew into a private world and would try to hit his head against the wall whenever upset. Interestingly, it was his aggression toward the aide that ultimately prevented him from harming himself further by hitting the wall.

The aide was told she was making progress, but she questioned, “Progress? How is it progress for him to want to hurt me?” The school psychologist explained that the young boy had endured repeated abuse as a child and only knew adults who were either mean to him or ignored his basic needs. He lacked trust, comfort, or anyone to care for him during tears or hunger. He often faced unexplained punishment. The psychologist then said, “He’s making progress because, for the first time, he trusts an adult enough to express his anger rather than self-destruct. You are that trustworthy adult.”

As you can imagine, the aide started to cry upon hearing the explanation and exclaimed, “I see!” As she understood more, her anger softened into love for the boy. John Ruskin said, “When love and skill work together, expect a masterpiece.”

My main point is that, although our process can sometimes feel elusive, God remains faithful and continues the good work He began in us. If we open our eyes and hearts, we will recognize His hand at work among us.

Here’s to a surrendered life of serving others,

Gene