Nearer Than Can Ever Be Imagined

Mgbafor was an elderly respected and God fearing widow in her community, and lives with Adaugo, her grandchild. She has a challenge: she suffers from height and water phobia and is usually accompanied by her grandchild each time she is crossing the bridge in her village.

On this fateful day, Adaugo her grandchild has gone out to play with other children and her grandmother needed to cross the narrow local village bridge that links her village to Eziala village.  She has received an urgent message from her childhood friend Ojiugo from Eziala and has to see her immediately.

She prepared and set out on her journey. She reached the bridge that separates her village from Ogiugo's.  As she was trying to cross it, she became very scared, unfortunately for her there was nobody around to assist her cross the bridge. She felt helpless, purse and thought for a moment. Then she turned inwardly  and asked God, "Can I hold your hand so that I may not fall into the bridge?" She heard God's voice distinctly, "No, my child, I will hold your hand". She  asked, "What is the difference?" God replied, "If you hold my hand and something happens, you might let go but if I hold your hand, no matter what happens, I will never let you go". Instantly she could feel God's hand holding her's as she passed through the narrow bridge to Eziala village. She felt delighted and grateful to God and had an eventful meeting with Ojiugo her friend.

No doubt, you may have had a similar experience of God walking with you in life as Mgbafor. This reminds me of God's assurance in His words: "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" (Isaiah 41:10). Even were I to walk in a ravine as dark as death I should fear no danger, for you are at my side. Your staff and your crook are there to soothe me (Psalm 23:4). 

Each of us may have had experiences of God walking with him/her in life. You can easily recall where you were five years ago and where you are today. Though your present state / situation according to your standard may not be something to reckon with, the good news is that you are still alive and that is worth appreciating God. Think of your past experiences  - pleasant and unpleasant, the costly mistakes you made, failures and defeats in your life, risks taken, the economic hardships, covid 19 pandemic, your achievements, joys and memorable moments in your life. The truth remains that you couldn't have gone through them and remain where you are today except by the mighty righteous right hand of God leading you through your life's journey. That calls for appreciation and gratitude to God.

I feel very much reassured and secure by God's response to Ojiugo, "If you hold my hand and something happens, you might let go but if I hold your hand, no matter what happens, I will never let you go". It is a confirmation of His abiding presence and shield over his children at the moments of danger. 

May the Lord hold your hands and lead you in your endeavors through this covid 19 pandemic season and always. May you excel in all your good undertakings. May you be blessed in abundance. May your home find peace and joy. May your life overflow with wealth and grace. Amen. 

Have a great week ahead.