Held By God

At the time of this writing, my son, Hudson, is 6 months old. I have never seen a baby fight sleep the way this kid does. There are times when I am holding him that he clings so tightly to me. I will whisper to him to fall asleep, but yet he remains so restless. I know that if he would just close his eyes, he would peacefully drift off to sleep.

I think we are the same way with the Lord at times, especially when we are anxious about the cares of life. We hold to Him so tightly, whereas in reality, it God who is securely holding on to us. We are restless and anxious. Yet, if we would just rest in God’s promises and close our eyes, would we not feel the peace of God that surpasses all understanding? That is the promise of James 4:7, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Andrew Murray was a missionary in South Africa during the 1800’s. He was a mighty man of God, a prolific writer, but best of all, a great prayer warrior. He would say, “God is much like our bed, in Him, we can lay down and rest.” I love that quote and I remind myself of it often, because I often need rest.

Do you need rest today? Are you exhausted? Many are not just worn out physically, but they are exhausted mentally, emotionally and spiritually. What do you do in those times? I think you recognize that God is securely holding you. When you consider His sovereign power, and His ability to intervene and help you, what should we fear or be anxious over?

Consider these powerful Scriptures. They will help you rest. Memorize them, meditate upon them and then drift off to sleep in the arms of God knowing that you are safe, loved and deeply cared for.

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand – Isaiah 41:10

I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears – Psalm 34:4

The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe – Proverbs 29:25

I can do all things through him who strengthens me – Philippians 4:13

Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation- Isaiah 12:2