Hold My Hand

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

It is almost impossible for a majority to agree on any given point; even so, most of us would wholeheartedly agree that our world is in a crisis. The COVID-19 virus escapes and defeats all of humanity’s efforts to curtail its global impact. The surging, declining, and resurgence cycle is evident by the increase of cases and deaths in most countries.

The dilemma intensifies as nature takes a turn and becomes a disturbing force, displacing individuals from their safe harbor, causing them to seek shelter in unfamiliar places. With little time to prepare, those living in the path of hurricane activity are forcefully removed from their comfort zones. The warning of refusing to comply with mandatory evacuation was reinforced by officials stating, “We will not attempt physical removal from your home, if you choose not to evacuate.”

Emergency preparedness is a concept that I have practiced for many decades on the job, but never developed a personal emergency plan until recently. Although my husband and I are not close to the storms, we have decided to pack a couple of bags with essential clothing, if we would need to evacuate our home. Our necessary documents are also in a small strongbox in a central location that enables us to grab and go.

Preparation is a powerful concept that eliminates emotional responses when adversity arises. It is not fear that drives us to be ready, just in case. With so many natural and health disasters posing threats, rational thinking causes one to preserve their safety. Yes, taking the necessary steps to protect one’s physical safety is a priority. Still, I can think of another aspect of maintaining one’s protection: to remain safe from a spiritual perspective.

Placing our lives in God’s hands while remaining faithful, trusting, and obedient is what God requires. Do not be concerned about the details of God’s plan, just wait, and He will reveal His perfect plan. God always fulfills His promises. If God said, “I will take care of you,” believe and receive. God is still faithful!

Psalm 91
1 Those who live in the shelter of the Most High
will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
2 This I declare about the Lord:
He alone is my refuge, my place of safety;
he is my God, and I trust him.
3 For he will rescue you from every trap
and protect you from deadly disease.
4 He will cover you with his feathers.
He will shelter you with his wings.
His faithful promises are your armor and protection.
5 Do not be afraid of the terrors of the night,
nor the arrow that flies in the day.
6 Do not dread the disease that stalks in darkness,
nor the disaster that strikes at midday.
7 Though a thousand fall at your side,
though ten thousand are dying around you,
these evils will not touch you.
8 Just open your eyes,
and see how the wicked are punished.

9 If you make the Lord your refuge,
if you make the Most High your shelter,
10 no evil will conquer you;
no plague will come near your home.
11 For he will order his angels
to protect you wherever you go.
12 They will hold you up with their hands
so you won’t even hurt your foot on a stone.
13 You will trample upon lions and cobras;
you will crush fierce lions and serpents under your feet!

14 The Lord says, “I will rescue those who love me.
I will protect those who trust in my name.
15 When they call on me, I will answer;
I will be with them in trouble.
I will rescue and honor them.
16 I will reward them with a long life
and give them my salvation.

God, we ask you to forgive us for our sins.  You have promised to take care of us and we believe that you will keep your promises. We place our lives in your hands. Please give us the courage to serve you with all of our heart, soul, and mind. Thank you for your never-ending grace and mercies. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020, No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted for commercial purposes without the written permission of the author.