| What are hands for? Webster defines the functions or activity of this
part of the human body as an instrument for grasping or gripping, as well as a symbol for
authority, power, and control. The world has coined many phrases that convey numerous
meanings to the use of this word - hands off, second hand, many hands make light work, out
of hand, I've gotta hand it to you, change hands, - to name a few Hands also convey
comfort, approval, and help. The Holy Spirit in penning the Word of God selected hands to describe the very character of God in caring for His own dear children. Literally hundreds of verses portray God's hands as His instrument of power, protection, provision, healing, guidance, and comfort. The nation of Israel feared God had forgotten her. "And the Lord answered, Can a woman forget her nursing child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? Yes, they may forget, yet I will not forget thee. Behold, I have indelibly imprinted (tatooed) a picture of you on the palm of each of My hands, O Zion" (Isaiah 49:15 Amp.). The same Savior Who bears the marks of Calvary in His hands, and bore the proof to doubting Thomas when He invited him to reach and "see My hands," now bears a picture of each one of His redeemed ones in the palms of His hands. What love! What security! Certainly God's power to keep His children day by day is as sure as His power to save. Job, amidst all his trials of body, soul and spirit could cry out in all confidence, "For the hand of God had touched me" (Job 19:23). He needed nothing more than the assurance that he was in God's hands, that his Redeemer liveth and that He is unchangeable. The great apostle John possessed that same confidence when he wrote, "For we are in God's hands; He is above and greater than our hearts, and He knows everything - nothing is hidden from Him" (I John 3:20 Amp.). The hymn writer has so beautifully written: Our times are in Thy hand; Our times are in Thy hand; Our times are in They hand, Those blessed hands that were so active during His earthly ministry in healing the sick, restoring sight to the blind, quickening the lame, feeding the multitudes and beckoning the little ones to come to Himself, are still outstretched to you today. His touch is as comforting now as it was then. Dear child of God, whatever circumstances of life would rob you of that inner peace and joy that Christ so desires to give, rest in the very presence and promises of God. "Fear not; (there is nothing to fear) for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you (to difficulties); yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My victorious right hand of rightness and justice" (Is. 41:10 Amp.). Never fear - never falter - never faint! You are in God's hands! by - L. Springman |