It is a short walk to the park from my house, which my kids and their cousins have done many times before. This time, we had my, almost two-year-old, niece in tow. She longs to keep up with the big kids, and today was no different. As they walked, she, too, wanted to walk; they swung, she wanted to swing; they slid, and so she wanted to try it too. Before mastering each feat, however, she had just enough fear to keep her cautious. As we walked, she reached up for the safety of my hand before she bravely took those steps. On the swing, she clutched my fingers as she warmed up to the newness of the ride. She braved the walk up to the slide but clung tightly to my hand until she was ready for the plunge. And as I watched her every motion, the Lord was teaching me a great lesson!

The dictionary describes fear as an emotion induced by perceived danger or threat. My niece had enough fear to keep her holding on to my hand, in which she found her courage and her strength. She knew she was safe as long as she held on tight. This is precisely how God wants us to reach out for Him. He says, ‘Don’t be afraid, I’m here. I will be your strength; I will help you, just hold on to my hand!’ What a comforting promise! Facing this life’s obstacles can cause us to feel fearful, but we do not have to face them alone. Trust God to walk with you every step and He will be your strength. He will give you the courage to face your scariest moments. God promises to hold your hand and be with you, so do not fear!

Suggested Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for never leaving me. Thank you for walking beside me during the most difficult moments of life. Thank you for holding my hand and allowing me to draw my strength from you. Help me to remember that your hand is always outstretched for me to cling to. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

1. Isaiah 41:10 (NIV).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Veronica B.