The Upper Room Devotion for Tuesday, October 3, 2023, was written by H. Michael Brewer of Kentucky.
Scripture
7 Where can I go from your spirit? Or where can I flee from your presence? 8 If I ascend to heaven, you are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, you are there. 9 If I take the wings of the morning and settle at the farthest limits of the sea, 10 even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me fast.
Psalm 139:7-10 NRSV
Author's Thoughts
One day while I visited a construction site with my father, my puppy wandered away. I heard him wailing and discovered he had fallen into a hole. I tried to retrieve him, but he was beyond my reach. My father promised, "It will be alright." He lay on the ground and thrust his arm into the hole. He strained, he stretched, he grunted, and finally his fingertips hooked my puppy's collar. Then he lifted my whimpering pet back into the light. I brushed my puppy clean and then hugged my father. The memory remains vivid - musty soil, warm summer sun, and fear clenching my body.
That day, I believed my dad could do anything. The recollection of my earthly father's strength encourages me to have greater trust in my heavenly Father. Even after decades of following Jesus, I sometimes think my heart embraces fear more readily than faith. But I remind myself that I am neither lost nor alone. When I see no way out, I remember that strong arm and long reach of my Savior.
No disaster can put us beyond God's help. So when we are frightened in the dark, trapped by poor choices, over our heads in trouble, God's arm is long enough to reach us, and God's hand is strong enough to save us.
Pastor Anthony's Thoughts
Friends,
It can be challenging to find the strength to endure hardships. Yet, when we remember that we are not facing our obstacles alone, that we have a God that bears our burdens, we can trust God will help us endure. H. Michael Brewer's reflection reminds us of an amazing truth: "When I see no way out, I remember that strong arm and long reach of my Savior." As you find yourself struggling to keep your head above the waves of worry, remember God stretches out to grab us and keep us safe.
Author's Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for holding us in your hand and lifting us when we fall. give us faith to trust you even when we are afraid. Amen.
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