Holding His Hand (Friday Devotional)

 

When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.

- Psalm 56:3

Last Saturday, my family and I spent some time at White Rock Lake enjoying the sunny day. We went for a walk, threw the football around, and finally, wound up at the playground.

The big kids knew what to do, as you might expect of a 5- and 8-year-old. But Isaac, our 1-year-old, was a little more tentative on the playground equipment, especially the slide. He would eagerly crawl up to it, smile on his face, look down…and then turn around and crawl away from the edge. He did this several times, each time getting a little further out, but never far enough to take the plunge. Finally, we held one of his hands—and then and only then did he have the courage to go down the slide.

It occurs to me that we never fully grow out of that behavior pattern—part of the way we deal with fear is by drawing on the strength of others. Whether you’re afraid of heights, air travel, or the monster hiding under your bed, the way you conquer your fears is by holding somebody’s hand and trusting them to get you through it.

In the Bible, we see countless examples of God’s people facing frightening situations, from Moses in Egypt to Paul in prison. Again and again, we see these biblical heroes endure—not because they relied on their own inner strength, but because they leaned on God’s. When they were looking over the edge, unsure they could continue, they reached out to the Lord and grabbed his hand.

When fear and anxiety grip you today, you can do the same thing they did. God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and a sound mind. He promises never to leave you or forsake you. So don’t let the doubts of the day overcome your faith in the one who holds tomorrow—just reach out and grab his hand.