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He holds me by the hand…


Standing on a shore and watching the waves rhythmically rolling in, I would say my fascination is as perpetual and continuous as the never ending ripple or crash they deliver to the shoreline. Whether it’s Galveston or Myrtle Beach, San Diego or even Lake Hamilton, I’m completely mesmerized. 

I watch and I wonder. I wonder about the God who carved out the shores made me and knows me. And just as He told the waters “go here, and no further,” He has set boundaries and protection around me, carving out a path for my very own unique purpose. 

I wonder about the God who sets all these waves and tides in perpetual but perfect motion with the laws of nature, rising and ebbing in perfect timing with the moon’s mysterious pull—how can He have the time or concern to orchestrate the things in my life, as well? After all, it’s “just me.”

But it’s “just me” that He has in his hand. His right hand — the hand of authority, as when a king raises his scepter in his right hand and mighty men bow, crowds are silenced, his wishes are decreed and obeyed…”even the wind and waves obey Him!” (Matthew 8:27) 

He holds me with his right hand, the promise says. That puts me on His right side — where, in every kingdom, the heir to the kingdom sits, watching, listening and learning, being cultivated and nurtured to inherit all the favor and authority that position promises. 

Watching the waves, I’m reminded of the perpetual motion of His presence, His work in my life, and His endless, repeating, rhythmic flow of mercy, love, and life into my soul.

Life will bring its joys and its pains, celebrations and tragedies, periods of rest and challenges…

But as my faith starts to shake, He says “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.”  

When my heart sinks and I’m alone in a dark place, He says, “Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God.”

When my stamina has ebbed away to nearly nothing, He says, “I will strengthen you and help you.”

And when I think I can’t stand against the force of the rising tide any longer, when it seems all hope is gone and I’m grasping desperately for help, He says, “I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”

#BackyardDevo   www.BackyardDevo.com
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