December 8, 2010 God' hand to You

God’s Hand Extended to You

Day 23: Luke 1:66 Everyone who heard this wondered about it, asking, “What then is this child going to be?” For the Lord's hand was with him.

“CAN I give you a hand?” I love it when people ask me that. It means they have care and concern for me. They want to lighten my work and help me complete it more quickly. An extra hand at the right time is a wonderful blessing.
The Lord’s hand was on John, this new baby boy God had miraculously delivered to John’s aging, barren mother and priest father. People knew his life was a special miracle and a loving sign from God. They were feeling God telling them, “I’m here to give you my hand.”
In the book of Acts, another book Luke wrote, he uses the same phrase: Acts 11:20-21 “The Lord's hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.” God had sent his Spirit to begin his church. The only way the church could begin was for God’s hand to powerfully change hearts and turn to him.
“The Lord’s hand” and another phrase “The hand of God” are references to his power to protect, guide and care for his people.
God does not sit by with his hands folded and watch you live your life. He offers his hand to you, and says, “Here, take it. I’ll pull you up. I’ll keep you from falling. I’ll use my power to care for you. I’ll lead you to good places. Don’t be afraid. Don’t worry. I’m here loving you. Go ahead, take my hand.”
When you pick up your bible, look for God’s hand. It’s there on every page waiting to help you.
Thank you, Lord, for your warm, loving, powerful hand.


Pause and Consider: God’s hand is open to you.

Eyewitness Testimony
Read 1 John

1 John 4:14 Furthermore, we have seen with our own eyes and now testify that the Father sent his Son to be the Savior of the world.
&
1 John 4:16 We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love.

“HOW DO YOU know the bible is true?” Has anyone ever asked you that question? Have you asked the question?
There are several ways to know the truth of the bible. One of these ways is to listen to the New Testament writers. You will often see in the Gospels and letters such statements as we have here, “we have seen with our own eyes.”
John was the youngest disciple. And he became an Apostle of Jesus Christ. He walked with Jesus, saw the miracles, heard the teaching, stood in front of the cross when Jesus died, walked into the empty tomb. He saw Jesus alive again as Jesus came to him and the others several times after his resurrection. And he saw Jesus ascend to heaven.
Quite an eyewitness.
And what does he do with what he has seen? He tells the truth about Jesus. He calls people to love such a loving Savior. He is a witness to how Jesus is the Lord of life, and he knows only Jesus’ commands matter.
How are you an eyewitness to Jesus’ love? Are you saved? How do you know? Is your life different? Do you think and live better with Jesus as your Lord? When you trust him, do you personally know the power of his Spirit in you?
Then you, too, can be an eyewitness to your Lord Jesus.


Pause and Consider: eyewitnesses witness.