Matthew 14:27 — But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!”
When I was a little girl, I got to go to Yankee Stadium. My dad was taking us to watch the major league team in action, and I could hardly take it all in.
The city roared all around us. Taxis honked, people rushed past, and voices echoed off the tall buildings. I remember clutching my little purse so tightly.
Dad told me to wear it across my chest so no one could steal it. Then he reached down, wrapped his hand around mine, and led me toward the stadium. His hand was strong, steady, and sure.
We moved through a sea of people, but I never felt afraid.
Dad’s grip didn’t loosen, not even for a second. He watched every step ahead of us, making sure I stayed close. I remember the way he would tilt his head back just to check on me. There was no mistaking it—he was not letting go of his little girl.
That memory has stayed with me all these years later. It’s a snapshot I can still feel, because that is exactly how God is with us.
He holds our hand tightly with His right hand, drawing us close to His heart. He guides us when we cannot see where we’re going. He shields us when the world feels too loud and uncertain. His promises do not fade with time, and His hold does not weaken when the road gets crowded.
Sometimes, I still feel like that little girl in a world too big to handle. But when I slow down long enough to notice God’s hand holding mine, I realize I am still being led—and still being held.
And maybe that is what He’s been whispering all along: “Don’t be afraid, Take courage. I am here.”
Gratitude begins right there—in the middle of the chaos, with the steady reminder that we are not walking alone. His hand is still sure, His presence still near, and His heart still set on us.
And when you really see that, thankfulness becomes the most natural thing in the world.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
- When have you felt like the world was too big or overwhelming? How does the image of God holding your hand change that perspective?
- What fears are you carrying today that need to be placed into God’s care?
- How can you practice noticing God’s presence and guidance in everyday life, even amid chaos?