My 6 year old grandson recently spent a week with me by himself—a short respite from his three little gregarious and spunky sisters. We had a wonderful time conversing about life, catching lizards (he did the catching, I just watched), and drawing castles. He just glowed with delight, being the only one here on the receiving end of his grandma’s love and attention.

When I was at his school last year for Grandparent’s Day the principal of the school said something that stuck with me. I thought it was rather profound. She told all the grandparents gathered on that day that although they had already raised their children—working hard to instill discipline and often saying “no”—we were now in the “yes phase of life.” I love that because it is so true. Grandparents get much joy out of saying “yes” to their grandchildren.

My grandson heard me talking about that to someone after the event at his school and asked me what it meant. We talked about it and since then, he loves to remind me (at key moments, of course) that I am, indeed, in the “yes phase of life.”

God wants to say “yes” to us, his children, as well. He desires the very best for us and is the giver of all good things. It brings Him joy to meet our needs and bestow blessings on us. Of course, in his infinite wisdom, he doesn’t always grant our requests just as we use good judgement in saying “yes” to our grands. But God is for you. He loves you—so much that he did not spare His own Son but gave Him up as a sacrifice to pay for your (and my) sin.

Grandparents, remember to say “yes” to those littles. Shower them with love and affection and teach them about the ultimate giver of good things—God himself.

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” James 1:16-17

“For the Lord God is a sun and shield; The Lord will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly. O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man who trusts in you.” Psalm 84:11-12

“Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men! For He satisfies the longing soul, and fills the hungry soul with goodness.” Psalm 107:8-9