Whispers and Winks from God

For almost 39 years now, I’ve proudly answered to the name “Momma.” Through scraped knees, bedtime stories, school projects, heartaches, and hugs — being a stay-at-home mom to my three children was the greatest and most sacred calling of my life. Our youngest, Landon, was born when his siblings were already 20 (Aaron) and 18 (Brittany). He was our sweet surprise, and a special blessing to our entire family! To say that he may be a bit spoiled is an understatement. But then again, isn’t the baby of the bunch normally the spoiled one?

I’ve never considered myself a helicopter parent, just a “present” one. With that said, I tend to ask a lot of questions. I mean, I want to know what’s going on in the lives of my children — right now, more so of this “baby boy” of ours who still lives at home. However, I found out recently that an almost 20-year-old doesn’t like to play his mom’s game of “Answer ALL the Questions.” After asking what seemed to be a gazillion questions, his reply both tickled me and caught me off guard — “For the love of God, Mom, you are overstimulating me!”

Landon has a great personality. He makes us laugh quite a bit. This was one of those times.

After I stopped laughing, I began to think about what he had just said and what overstimulation may feel like. Maybe it feels like your brain is receiving too much emotional input. Maybe it means becoming irritable, anxious, and unable to focus. Maybe it means shutting down because our brain is struggling to process everything.

I realized there are times in my life when I also get overstimulated.

Psalm 55:2 (NIV) says: “Hear me and answer me. My thoughts trouble me and I am distraught.”

Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) says: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

I’m so glad to know that when I go to the Lord with all my requests and questions, He doesn’t get overstimulated, tired, or annoyed. In fact, His word encourages constant prayer and promises that He is never too busy to listen. He has an unlimited capacity to care for the details of our lives. He welcomes our communications. It is impossible to “overstimulate” God. His strength is infinite. So, take it all to the Lord! Everything! Even the gazillion questions!