I grew up on a small farm, the youngest of four in a 2 bedroom log house. For most of my growing up years we had an outhouse, no phone. Cold snowy winters outside were warmed by a pot belly wood stove inside. Alcoholism made a huge impact and shaped all this. My mother was a strong woman. She lived through World War II and the Great Depression. Life seemed to have given her a harsh edge. Empathy was not a strength. Yet there was this tender side I discovered late one night. I’d been sick. After going to bed, mom, thinking I was asleep, gently ran her fingers through my hair. This act of tenderness was repeated in my growing up years. This tenderness showed me a side of my mom that was not often evident but yet very real. It gave me a greater confidence and security in my relationship with her.
At times my view of God has lacked an understanding of His tenderness. My understanding has been shaped by a couple of verses…
“He (God) tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.” – Isaiah 40:11 (NIV)
The context of this passage is a description of God power that shapes the universe, the nations and the rulers of the world. Yet in the middle of this is the snapshot of His tenderness…
“You (God) have also given me the shield of Your salvation, and Your right hand upholds me; and Your gentleness makes me great.”
–Psalms 18:35 (NASB)
Gentleness in the context of strength is a profound contrast and gift. My mom gave me the first glimpse of this. As I have embraced God’s gentle touch in the circumstances of life it has brought healing, security and comfort. Allow God to carry you today.
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Would you like to know Jesus and have the peace and comfort that only he can give?
If so, why don’t you pray this prayer and invite Jesus into your life:
Lord Jesus, I need You. Thank You for dying on the cross for my sins. I open the door of my life and receive You as my Savior and Lord. Thank You for forgiving my sins and giving me eternal life. Take control of the throne of my life. Make the kind of person You want me to be.
If you sincerely expressed that prayer to God, you can know that you have a personal relationship with Him. He will be your comfort in these troubled times. God promises us “peace that passes understanding” in other words peace in a world that doesn’t make sense. You can know peace and hope even when your world is in turmoil. God does not change. Ever.
By Mike Woodard
Used by Permission
Further Reading
• A Mother’s Special Promise – a touching story
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