Holds

“The steps of a man are established by the Lord; and He delights in his way.  When he falls, he shall not be hurled headlong; because the Lord is the One who holds his hand;”   Psalm 37:23-24 

Holds – In Hebrew – samak.  The primary meaning of the root is to lean upon or to sustain.  In contrast to the meaning of grasp, this word recalls the laying on of hands that was associated with the sacrificial offerings of the Old Testament.  It expresses the identification of self with the offering surrendered to God as an act of consecration.  From this background, the Bible teaches that our support must come from God, not from men, for it is by God’s power that we will dwell in a place of safety and righteousness despite those times when we fall. 

One of the constant characteristics of children is that they never refuse to hold your hand.  It is a bond of safety and protection for them, and an assurance of love for us.  Lovers hold hands for the same reasons, and the added one of deep intimacy and personal vulnerability.  Did you know that God loves to hold hands with you?  Why not?  He is your perfect Father and your greatest admirer.  His handholding is the deepest expression of care and concern. 

If we are going to know the true delight of the Lord, we need to offer our hand to His.  We can walk through life just like our own children, safe and secure in the comfort of that strong hand holding ours.  He will guide us in the right way if we just hold on.

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