April 29, 2024
Melissa Valerio
With my daughter, Holly, I like to employ the “Second Chance Method” when she needs another chance to express herself appropriately. Oftentimes, because of her Autism Spectrum Disorder, she yells and screams when she is frustrated. I understand this is because of Autism, but I also think it is something she can learn not to do. So, when she yells because she cannot find something she is looking for, I simply say “Do you want to try that again?”, and she immediately knows I am asking her to use her words nicely. And together, we choose a more appropriate way to communicate what she needs. “Mom, can you help me find my ___________?” After years of doing this, I don’t know if I see any difference yet, but I am hopeful that one day she will learn to do this on her own.
Second chances are littered throughout the Bible. From Moses getting another chance to free the Israelites (after his murderous act), to John Mark getting another chance to prove his loyalty to Jesus. We see Jonah getting a second chance, David getting a second chance, and Peter getting a second chance. All these are examples of people who did it wrong the first time, then got the chance to “try it again” for better results. We are so blessed to worship a God who puts incredible value in each individual. In today’s culture, we are prone to throw out the old and bring in the new. But not God. He loves to take the old and refurbish with a good measure of humility and grace. God does not shy away from the arduous work of training someone into greater character. Though we may stumble, we will not fall. (Psalm 37:24) God is committed to us, like I am committed to Holly.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, Thank You for the many chances You’ve given each of us. In fact, each day is another chance to glorify You. Thank You for Your patience and devotion to us. It is only by Your Spirit that we can grow into Your likeness. We are never without hope because we have You. In Your blessed name, Amen.
Action: Memorize Proverbs 24:16 “Though a righteous man falls seven times, he will get up.” When we have Jesus, we have the strength and power to try again. Ask the Lord if there is anything He wants you to try again.
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