I Want to Be God
A friend posted on Facebook that her husband asked their young children what Bible character they’d like to be.
Aria said she’d like to be Mary. That isn’t surprising since we just focused on Mary during Christmas.
Three-year-old Hailey said she’d “like to be God.”
Aria immediately responded, “Haley would be in my tummy!”
Big brother, Joel, age 8, couldn’t imagine what life would be like with a 3-year-old God.
I’m glad a father is teaching his children about the Bible and asking them questions that make them think. It’s encouraging that 5-year-old Aria already knows that God and Jesus are one, thus Hailey, as God, would be in her tummy. While Mom was amused, I understand her discomfort that her daughter wants to be God.
But, I love it. I love the whole conversation.
I love that Hailey, in her innocence, put voice to something that adults often agree with but are afraid—or too sophisticated—to admit. After all, it isn’t acceptable to want to be God.
I can already hear the responding rumble. “I don’t agree!” “I don’t want to be God!” “I don’t want that responsibility.” “I’m not wise enough to be God. . . .”
I can also hear comments from the past, “If I were God, I would (fill in the blank).” Or I wouldn’t (. . .), “If I had God’s power, I’d (. . .),” “If I could, I’d (. . .).”
We know better than to want to be God, but there are times when we resist what He’s asking of us. Times when we think we know better, when we want to call the shots. What about the times we’d like to make those around us to act like we want them to.
In addition, how many times do we charge into action without seeking God’s guidance or help? And how many times are we fearful, lonely or hurt, but we wallow in our negative emotions rather than turn to our Refuge and Strength? Who do we trust when we are in need?
Where do we seek guidance—from our own reason, our culture, or our God and His Word?
We say we don’t want to be God, but at times we want to be as God.
Jesus Christ is the King of kings and Lord of lords. And He’s my God.
I agree with Joel. Having a 3-year-old god would be frightening indeed. So would a god who is 63-years-old. From the perspective of the Almighty, the Eternal Creator of all, would a 63-year-old have much more wisdom than a 3-year-old?
I don’t think so.
I don’t want to be God. Really, I don’t.
But I’m guilty. Sometimes I act as god, wanting the power and authority to get my way. When I act like I’m god, stress and turmoil rob me of peace and joy. I’m lost, anxious, confused, and alone.
I’m grateful the Lord loves me and forgives me for those times. Grateful that His mercies are new every morning, and that He doesn’t let my attempts to run my own life succeed.
I’m grateful for a three-year-old who’s willing to say it like it is. She knows she wants the authority and power to make things go her way.
May we all be more aware when we challenge our God and His omnipotence.
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