Scripture: “My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.” – John 10:29
Examination: Jesus teaches that He is the “good Shepherd” and continues to define His relationship with His followers as one between a shepherd and the sheep. He goes on to explain that God protectively holds His “sheep” in His hand and no one can remove them from Him.
Application: When I was little, my dad would hold my hand whenever we were in a situation where I needed his protection. It could be crossing a street or walking around a busy department store. Nothing could pry my hand from his grasp, not even my own squirming would make him release me. I belonged to him, and he kept me safe from everything… even myself!
This is exactly how it is with God. Once we accept Jesus as our personal Saviour, God’s hand wraps around us, and we are forever safe in His care. It is impossible to lose the gift of salvation that His Son provided for us because God holds us tight in His hand, and our position with Him is a done deal. Ephesians 2:8 states, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:” I am so secure in the palm of God’s hand that even I cannot jump out of it!
The reality that God will never allow anything to sever our bond is such blessed assurance, as the old hymn states. Here are a few verses in the Bible that remind me of God’s faithfulness to our relationship.
- “And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.” – Deuteronomy 31:8
- “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” – Joshua 1:9
- “I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.” – Psalm 16:8
- “Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” – Matthew 28:20
Regardless of whether I backslide, fail, or even intentionally choose a sinful way, God doesn’t allow me to fall from His hand. His grasp on me remains firm and He gently speaks to my heart through His Word and Spirit, bringing me to repentance and restoration. It is good to be held in my Father’s hand forever!
Memory Verse: “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.” – 1 John 5:13
I feel the touch of hands so kind and tender.
They're leading me in paths that I must trod.
I have no fear for Jesus walks beside me,
For I'm sheltered in the arms of God.
So let the storms rage high, the dark clouds rise,
They don't worry me; for I'm sheltered safe within the arms of God.
He walks with me, and naught of earth shall harm me,
For I'm sheltered in the arms of God.
(from “Sheltered in the Arms of God” by Dottie Rambo)