Be Encouraged

“The Lord makes firm the steps

    of the one who delights in him;

though he may stumble, he will not

fall, for the Lord upholds him with

his hand.” Psalm 37:23-24

I can remember the days that my twin sons began to walk. Initially, first steps of cruising around edges of furniture, holding on for balance, stepping away for brief moments at a time, while balancing on their own, ending with a short plop to the ground on their padded diaper seat. They were determined to get back up and start all over again in their adventure. Soon, it was with the hand of dad, mom, grandma or grandpa, that they confidently took several steps at a time. Shortly, thereafter, it developed into several brave solitary steps from one person to another. The joy from their little faces radiantly shone as the confidence grew and the cheers encouraged them on.

Our Lord delights in us when we take steps towards Him. He longs for us to seek Him in prayer, quiet time, Bible study and worship. Yet, He is so loving and patient that when we stumble, He is right there, upholding us with His hand. He smiles, cheers and encourages us back into relationship with Him. And, oh, how precious it is that the more time we spend with Him, the firmer our steps in life become. We understand His love for us, and we walk in confidence, showing His love to those around us.

Prayer: Dear loving Father, “I will give thanks to you, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds“ (Psalm 9:1). As we seek You this week in confidence knowing that You, Lord, uphold us with Your hand, may we be a blessing to those around us displaying Your love to them. In Jesus’ precious name. Amen.