I watch a child have a meltdown as I eat my barbecue ribs. The ribs are good but the screeching isn’t. I’m wondering if this is what we sound like to our Heavenly Father when we don’t get our way….

No more than four, the two little Asian girls sitting across from me in coordinating dresses are ridiculously cute. That is, until the one to my right erupts into a crying fit. Her sister has a kiddy pizza and she wants one too. The only problem is that she ordered ribs and fries. Apparently, she no longer wants this meal. It doesn’t look as appetizing as her sister’s.

Her mother tries to calm her down, looking around embarrassed. We’re in a busy restaurant and a bunch of patrons are trying to watch the game.

About five minutes later, though, I notice that the screaming has stopped. The girl, now silent, munches happily on her sister’s plate of pizza. I watch her mother side-eye her with a look of disgust. She will live to fight another day.

Some of us are screaming children who are not happy with our portion; however, God is not going to switch our plate. We’ve been created with a purpose, so coveting someone else’s job, marriage or ministry is not going to cut it. Our Heavenly Father has already prepared the meal that He knows is best for us, even if we don’t understand or agree. We can fuss and fight and try to switch plates (believe me, I’ve tried), but we’re never going to be happy. We’ll just be struggling to live a life that doesn’t fit.

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (Ephesians 2:10, NIV)

What has God called you to do? Are you doing it or are you pursuing a course of action that seems a bit more socially acceptable? Are you complaining, screaming or running away from God’s will for your life?

I’ve spent a lot of time arguing with God and expressing my discontent. Looking at other people’s talents and gifts, I want those things instead of what He’s already given me. I’m slowly realizing that kicking up a fuss never gets me anywhere. And guess what? It won’t work for you either. We’re all just better off to surrender.

What areas of your life do you need to surrender to God?