God Carries Us

When my little sister died at age 24 from heart and liver problems caused from birth defects, it was a hard time for our family. It was especially hard on my parents. It was at that time we were introduced to the poem entitled "Footprints." It is about a man who had a dream and saw Jesus walking with him through different times in his life by seeing two sets of footprints in the sand. However, at times there was only one set of footprints. He was troubled and asked Jesus why He had left him. Jesus explained that He would never leave him, but in those really hard times, He had carried him.

That poem is still a comfort to me and many other people today. I believe the psalmist really had an even better conception of what Jesus does for us, as believers. (Psalm 68:19) He said, "Praise the Lord; praise our God and Savior. For each day He carries us in His arms." I hope we all realize that God is carrying us all of the time, or we would not be able to do anything. It is His power and direction that make our lives possible. This word picture of God carrying us should fill our hearts with praise and help us realize just how dear we are to God.

I know some people are not "huggers," but many of us really appreciate getting or giving a good hug. It is that physical touch that conveys so much love and appreciation. Then, one step higher than that is when someone literally has to carry us in their arms. It has not happened to me too many times as an adult, but when it has, I have felt that person's compassion and concern for me. Now, stop to realize that God is carrying each of us every day because of His love and compassion for us. We need to be praising Him like the psalmist.

This verse reminds me of what Jesus promised us, as believers, in John 10:28. He said that He has given eternal life to those who believe, and no one can "snatch them out" of His hand. Do you get the picture? Jesus is holding us firmly in His hand, so we never have to fear losing our salvation. It is not us holding on the Him, even though we need to do that all of the time, it is Jesus holding us securely. Then, He says we are also in the Father's hands, and He is more powerful than anyone, too. These passages ought to assure us of the love and compassion God has for us as His children.

#NHBaptistdotorg

Tomorrow, I intend to read Psalms 69-71.