Friend, I realize that right now the words “safe” and “hands” may be rather trigger-ish with the pandemic’s stay safe and wash your hands mantras heavy on our minds—but what about the word “REST”? Being at peace in our very souls? Many of us are concerned about health, finances, and futures for ourselves—but also there’s the added layer of anxiety about loved ones we can’t be with across the city or across the globe. Today, can our souls find rest as we entrust everything and everyone into God’s safe hands?
Psalm 139 is my favourite. It gives the sweetest reassurance of God’s omnipresence and omniscience. He sees all and knows all. We can’t escape His love and kindness, even if we want to. He knows us intimately—our fears, failures, dreams, and desires, better than anyone else on the planet. Whenever I’m feeling unsure of my place or purpose in life, this is where I turn. You can read the whole thing HERE.
“If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.” Psalm 139:9-10
These particular verses from that Psalm are so precious. They remind me of the exciting time when we emigrated from the UK to Canada, which is now unbelievably 25 years ago. A new life in a new country on a new continent. My dad gave us these verses as we ventured off chasing our dream “on the far side of the sea” with our toddler in tow and many unknowns ahead of us.
And even a quarter of a century after the fact, when I read these words I still feel a flutter of butterflies in my belly. They evoke memories of our courageous days and how we trusted God completely to provide a job and a home and a community for us to embrace. And He did. Of course, He did. He is always faithful.
I didn’t realize at the time but this verse brought the sweetest comfort on both sides—to us as we journeyed into a brand-new life and to our families as they bid us farewell. It was not only reassuring for us to remember God was with us and would be our Guide always, it gave tremendous peace to the family we left behind knowing our Heavenly Father would be watching over us even as we were out of their sight. The Message explains God’s presence like this: “You’d find me in a minute—you’re already there waiting!” Travel is not an issue for omnipresent One.
Now as parents of three grown kids in their twenties who have all moved away to follow dreams of their own, I appreciate these verses afresh knowing God sees them, guides them, and loves them.
And today, as we all navigate our way through 2020 with the fears and frustrations of varying degrees, we can entrust ourselves and our loved ones—near and far—into God’s tender care. Into His safe hands.
Our souls can know His perfect peace.
“When I feel worry this season, I will simply exhale.
Worry is belief gone wrong.
Because you don’t believe that God will get it right.
And Peace is belief that exhales.
Because you believe that God’s provision is everywhere –
like air.” Ann Voskamp
His provision is enough. His presence is enough. His peace is enough.
Wherever we are.
Resting in His safe hands…
P.S. If you haven’t already seen it, I am currently the featured author at MANYBOOKS and you can read why I write heartwarming encouragement for your soul HERE! 🙂
Linking up today with some fabulous encouragers! Check them out:
