Together in Christ: 'Holding Hands in the Dark!' — Isaiah 41:13

Growing up, our children were not overly afraid of the dark when they were little. Part of the reason was that we had night lights and a regular tuck-in time with prayers every night. Once in a while, however, our daughter would awaken and be frightened. She wanted us to come and stroke her hair or hold her hand until she fell asleep. We would, and she would quickly fall back to sleep. What a lovely blessing and reassurance of security for a child!

Those memories are sweet, but they give me a powerful image to comfort me when I am restless, feel alone, struggle with concerns, push back fears, and can't sleep. I picture God sitting at my bedside, holding my hand, and being my Abba Father, Who assures me that I don't have to be afraid because my Father in heaven is with me.

We can list as many mighty and awesome things about God as we like — in fact, a regular time of praise that does just that is a great spiritual practice. More often than not, however, we need a God Who isn't just all powerful out there in the great beyond but also is our Abba Father, holding our hand while we move through our fears into secure sleep.

Jesus and the Holy Spirit are near, dear friend in Christ. ^[1] Your Abba Father will never leave you or forsake you! ^[2] God has promised:

"For I hold you by your right hand — I, the Lord your God. And I say to you, 'Don't be afraid. I am here to help you.'"

With this assurance from God, we can be confident in our relationships with others.