Eve climbed to the top of the play equipment and loudly stated; “I need a hand.” I watched as she thrust her hand into the air. She waited for me to take hold. I found myself struck by her confidence. With her feet, she sought to balance upon the beams of the structure, assured of my assistance through the obstacle. I delighted to come to her aid. As I extended my hand, she clinched tightly. Holding my hand, Eve navigated the narrow bars with trust, believing she could cross to the other side. We celebrated her accomplishment and anticipated another venture up the climbing bars.
Eve’s sister Ellie, ascended the toddler climbing apparatus and sat down upon the top edge. My eyes rested upon her. With unsteady legs she stood, looked at me, and held out her tiny hand. Although no words passed her lips, her plea and intent were evident. She wanted help. Again, with joy and eagerness, I leapt to her side, taking ahold of her hand. As she felt steadied, she slid down the jungle gym slide.
Hand – The end part of the arm. The power to direct help or assistance.
We might hear the phrase, “give a hand” or “lend a hand” when need arises. When Eve declared, “I need a hand” and Ellie extended her hand without words, I sensed a gentle nudge of God. I noted my human response of joy and enthusiasm to come to the aide of my two granddaughters. I wondered about God’s divine response to His children. This experience brought to my mind God’s words through Isaiah: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (41:10).
God spoke these words to Israel centuries ago, yet the truth of His character, presence, and posture remains consistent for us today.
So do not fear, for I am with you – God revealed His heart for Israel by calling them to live fearless and confident in His presence. In God, we are safe and secure; kept by Him (Psalm 122:7-9). In His love, God accompanied Israel then and walks with us today (Deuteronomy 7:6-9, Isaiah 43:1, Matthew 1:23) He offers His loving steadfast presence which forces fear to flee (Matthew 28:20, John 14:15-17, Romans 8:31, 1 John 4:16).
Take a moment to declare God’s presence with you.
Do not be dismayed, for I am your God – God offered encouragement and hope to Israel in their circumstances. Reminding Israel of His dominion and authority, as their God, brought confidence and courage. The character of God remains firm. Today, God encourages us with His presence and assurance of His supremacy as well (Matthew 28:18, Colossians 1). God helps us today as we trust in Him by reaching out our hand to depend upon Him (Romans 15:13, Proverbs 3:5-6, 1 Peter 2:25).
In what situation do you need to reach out your hand to God?
I will strengthen you and help you – God breathed life into Israel and fortified them not only physically, but spiritually (Psalm 28:7-8). With alertness and eagerness, God helped Israel (Isaiah 30:18, Psalm 121). The posture of God towards His people is faithful, mighty, and trustworthy. Today, we experience the strength of God guiding and fortifying us; shaping us to reflect Jesus (Romans 12:2, 1 Corinthians 3:18, Philippians 4:13).
Look to the Lord for strength in your inner being through the challenges of life.
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand – The hand of God is right, pure, and holy (Psalm 145:17, Psalm 89:14, Psalm 99:1-5). Because of His strength and glory, God is able to help humanity (Psalm 118:16, Matthew 22:41-45). God upheld Israel and upholds us today. God alone holds the power and authority to support and assist his people. He is faithful (Ephesians 1:19-20, 1 Corinthians 1:9, 1 Thessalonians 5:22-23).
Will you rest in the everlasting love and might of the Lord?
Resting in the faithful character, presence, and posture of God brings peace and freedom (Jeremiah 31:3, John 14:27). Living with Jesus enables us to enjoy life and its obstacles. God extends strength and help promising the supportive balance of His upright and just hand. Let us look to the Lord, who looks upon us, and thrust out our hand. We can depend upon Him.
This week – – –
Reflect. Consider the might and power of God. “Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you” (Jeremiah 32:17). “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being” (Revelation 4:11). Take a moment to reflect on the grandeur of God. Let the reality of the character of God encourage and strengthen you.
Request. Consider with God any obstacles you currently face. Are you endeavoring to face them in your own strength? What keeps you for reaching out your hand and declaring, “I need a hand”? God sees you and delights to help you. Confess your need to God. Imagine the righteous right hand of God upholding you and strengthening you.
Receive. Rest in the safety and security of God. He’s got you. Breathe. Thank God for His eager and able posture to come to your aid. Receive His everlasting tender care to your soul.
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Drips from the Word: Muse about these Bible verses. Let these truths impact your living.
Ephesians 3:16-19 – I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Philippians 4:13 – I can do all things through him [Christ] who strengthens me.
Splashes from the Spigot: Drink from deep wells. Read these recommended books to fill your soul.
John Ortberg. God Is Closer Than You Think: How Intimacy with God Can Happen Right Now. Grand Rapids, MI. 2014.
Ara C Trembly. The Right Hand of God: A Psychotherapist’s Case for the Reality of the Living God. Meadville, PA. 2023.
Sprinklings of Truth: Soak in meaningful songs. Check out these music videos to lift up your spirit.
Phil Wickham. What an Awesome God. Click here to watch & listen.
Matthew West. God’s Hand. Click here to watch and listen.