Sitting on my back patio reading scripture, I read the most comforting words reminding me I am still a child, a child of God.

The passage spoke to my heart in such a personal way. It was a beautiful day, sunny and warm. Well, actually it was hot if we want to get technical. This is Florida.

The breezes were gentle at times, then in an instant,  forcefully sweeping through the trees. I was enjoying our little bird friends playing and singing as they dipped down to nibble on seeds in their bird feeder. I had been praying earlier that morning for some very specific things that have been on my heart.

As I read in Isaiah 41, I was gripped by the words speaking right to me:

“I have chosen you and have not rejected you.  So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.  All who rage against you will surely be ashamed and disgraced; those who oppose you will be as nothing and perish.  Though you search for your enemies, you will not find them.  Those who wage war against you will be as nothing at all. For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you; Do not fear; I will help you..”                                                                                    Isaiah 41: 9b-13

I especially love the part where it says “I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you; Do not fear; I will help you.”  Wow, my Heavenly Father has got my right hand in His.

Can’t you just picture that?

Like when we’ve taken hold of our kid’s small hand, swung them around and looked them in the eyes to get their attention?

So then it really got me thinking about what exactly is the significance of the right hand?

Well, here’s what I found:

The right hand signifies power and strength as told in Psalm 63:8; Distinction and favor as told in Genesis 48:13-19; Honor and a place of honor as told in Psalm 45:9.  There are many other references to the right hand. I knew “the right hand of God” was an important place to be since that is where Jesus Christ is seated.

I also had read of blessings being bestowed using the right hand, etc., but this scripture was talking about my right hand. That sure gives a whole ‘nother meaning to this five-fingered appendage I use to brush my teeth every day.

Now some may say that scripture was God talking in “Bible Times”, but God speaks to us still today. He never changes and His message is for all of His creation; we have been created in His image.

So next time you are anxious, feeling fearful, or just need some spiritual strength and encouragement, hold up your right hand and allow your living God to take hold of it.