I returned home from Arizona late Saturday night, which meant sleeping in on Sunday morning. After watching our church’s service online, we ate breakfast and went for a hike. I was tired of making decisions so Tom chose our path. It was an uphill climb. As he reached for my hand I snapped this photo. His romantic gesture was a poignant reminder of his willingness to be with me through life’s challenges and on the hiking trail.
Hiking is not his thing, it’s mine. But he chooses to come with me and I’m grateful. When I’m alone, I don’t go very far. I carry my pepper spray and am hyper-vigilantly aware of my surroundings. But when he is by my side, holding my hand, I relax. I take in the scenery, breathe in the serenity, and embrace the security found in his presence.
For I hold you by your right hand— I, the Lord your God. And I say to you, ‘Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you. Isaiah 41:13 NLT
He Holds Our Hand
God is the ultimate example of holding hands with those He loves. He wants us to relax in His presence, take comfort in His hand, and let Him lead the way. There is no need to be afraid as we walk with Him.
As Tom and I walked down into the canyon, a coyote crossed our path, it glanced at us but kept walking. I confess it made me nervous. However, Tom confidently reminded me that the coyote was probably searching for food, and we were not on its menu. God spoke to me through my husband’s light-heartedness.
We may not know who or what will cross our path and catch us off guard. We cannot see what lies up the hill, around the mountain, or down in the valley of our future circumstances. But one day,
The valleys will be filled, and the mountains and hills made level. The curves will be straightened, and the rough places made smooth. Luke 3:5 NLT
After an exhausting week of handling, coaching, and refereeing, I needed to have my emotional, spiritual, and physical strength renewed. An uphill climb and a walk through the canyon was exactly what was needed. Someday Christ will return and we shall see all the rough spaces and places made smooth. But until then, we can cherish the moments, with our loved ones, when everything rights itself through the power of God’s outstretched hand.
Beautiful!