As we think more about “Searching His Word, Seeking His Heart,” I’m reminded of some of my life verses. You know, the kind of verses that have been dear to you in certain phases of your life. The verses you felt like you really have lived.

Our oldest grandchild will graduate from high school this year, which brings on the next phase of grand-parenting. Guess I’ve got graduation on my mind.

Any way, I think back to my high school youth director and her influence in that phase of my life. She gave me a verse to take with me to college.

“For I, the Lord, thy God, will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, ‘Fear not, I will help thee.’ ” Isaiah 41:13

I looked at it from time to time and then one day decided to make a small poster of the verse to hang up on my dorm room wall. It was easy to memorize since it hung in front of me all the time.

Occasionally, I thought about the verse as I strolled across the campus going from one class to the other. I imagined God holding my right hand, the hand I use most.

Then the thought struck me. It doesn’t say he grabs my hand, but holds it. He stretches out His hand offering me direction and confidence, but I must reach out to place my hand in His. It was a meaningful mental picture for me.

I prayed to be sensitive to His leading and to reach out for His hand in good times as well as fearful times. Indeed, there were some fearful times that required holding on tight.

“For I, the Lord, thy God, will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, ‘Fear not, I will help thee.’ “

How wonderful when we can claim verses of promise to sustain us. I’ve claimed this one many times.

~ Joyce ~