Articles
God Holds Your Hand
“For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.”
Isaiah 41:13
The novel coronavirus. Covid-19. Lockdowns and travel restrictions and quarantines. Restaurant dining rooms closed. Public events postponed. Social distancing. Handshakes are out and elbow bumps are in. Everyday life has changed considerably in the last few weeks. It looks like we will have to be creative in how we interact with one another, at least for the foreseeable future.
Personally, I look forward to the time in which we will be able to shake hands again. In the 1st century, giving the right hand of fellowship was an act signifying acceptance, partnership and trust. (see Gal. 2:9) Today, we shake hands as a sign of acceptance and welcome. When walking in a large crowd we reach for the hand of a child: it helps protect and comfort the child. In times of anticipation or great emotion, we grab the hand of a friend letting them know, “I am with you.” When we clasp the hand of a sick loved one; our hand tells them we are present and suffering with them. And when we grasp one another’s hand we are bearing witness to God.
Isaiah 41:13 was written to comfort God’s people in times like these. God holds our hand. He accepts us. He leads us. He protects us. He comforts us. He is with us in our most anxious moments and darkest hours. With the clasp of His hand comes courage for any situation we might face. We needn’t fear, for He is our ever present-help in time of trouble.
Friend, I don’t know when the coronavirus will run its course and the danger will be over. I don’t know when we will be able to meet again and give each other the right hand of fellowship. I don’t know when life will return to normal. I do know and am persuaded that God is faithful and will never cease to guide and comfort His people.
Hold His hand because He is holding yours.
-Scott Hafer 4/1/2020
