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…
For I am the LORD your God
who takes hold of your right hand
and says to you, Do not fear;
I will help you. Isaiah 41:10,13 (NIV)
A long time ago the English rock band known as the Beatles crooned the refrain, “I want to hold your hand.” When our children were small, we would enjoy holding hands even if it was just a simple stroll in the garden or along the beach. The intimacy was comforting and reassuring. However, when we were in town and came to a busy road or a crowded area, holding hands took a different meaning. I would clamp down on that little hand with all my parental love and protection. While I would say, “Hold on tight,” and the little hand would grasp my hand tightly, I would never depend on their grasp. It was I who held my child’s hand in a firm grip.
The Psalmist stated:
…you hold me by my right hand. Psalm 73:23 (NIV)
What a great thing to know in times of trouble and weakness that being safe isn’t dependent on our grip. Being safe is dependent on God’s grip.
God tells us, “Do not fear,” because:
- “I am with you.”
- “I am your God.”
- “I will strengthen you.”
- “I will help you.”
- “I will uphold you.”
Rest today in His grip which reassures and calms, protects, steadies and upholds us.