“No!” the two-year-old boy announced.

The rest of the family gathered for their meal as the mother urged the boy to eat. “But you like banana,” she encouraged.

“No!” he replied, and she sighed, moving away to help the other children. The blessing was said and the meal began. Everyone ignored the two-year-old, who should have been very hungry after a morning of running and playing outdoors. Soon his little fingers began to toy with the food. First one bite, then another disappeared from the plate.

“Look! He is eating!” volunteered an older sister. “Nooo!” the youngster wailed, pushing his plate away.

“Would you like to go for a walk with Papa?” mother asked after the meal.

“Walk! Walk!” Mr. Two headed for the door.

“Then bring your shoes to Mama so I can help you get ready,” she said.

“No!” he answered.

“Here, Sister brought your shoes. Let’s get your shoes and coat on.”

The youngster ran the other direction. “No!” echoed back over his shoulder.

Oh, the terrible twos, when everything is “no” unless you thought of it yourself. How like many Christians. We want to live life on our own terms, making our own decisions. I can almost hear God sigh as we turn down things we really want and make decisions that are not in our best interest, all in the name of independence.

Why should we want to be independent? Is it the pride that started this whole mess of sin? What will help us allow God to take over so He can bless our lives with the good He desires for us? I pray that this year will be one of learning—not independence, but dependence on our heavenly Father who desires us to grow in His likeness.

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