The Hand of God - Tuesday Praise & Pray (for others) June 20, 2023

The Hand of God can be a terrific or a terrifying thing depending on the circumstances. If God is upset, his hand can dish out the cup of wrath we recently discussed. If He is pleased, on the other hand, His hand can usher great blessings.

God's hand can give people supernatural strength as was the case for Elijah. 1 Kings 18:46 - Then the hand of the LORD came upon Elijah [giving him supernatural strength]. He girded up his loins and outran Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel [nearly twenty miles] (AMP). While modern athletes cover long distances with great speed, remember they train for years. Elijah was a prophet who trained in praying, fasting, and sharing God's word with others, not marathons.

Yet, God helped him outrun a chariot.

The Hand of the Lord can bring favor and elevation. 1 Peter 5:6 - Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Nehemiah experienced this. He humbled himself before the Lord in fasting, interceded for his people and sought God's face for help restoring Jerusalem. God answered his prayer and he went from being a servant, to becoming the governor of Jerusalem. He shared his testimony on the effect of the Lord's hand to encourage others in Nehemiah 2:18 - I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me. They replied, “Let us start rebuilding.” So they began this good work.

The Hand of the Lord can also bring His manifest presence and power to a place meaning people receive deliverance, healing, blessings and more. Acts 11:21 - The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord. The first Christians regularly experienced God's hand in their midst and it led to evidence of His might which convinced others to believe that Jesus died and rose again for their benefit. And so, their numbers grew from a small minority to a faith held by many more today. And in this day and age, the Body of Christ continues to witness the presence of God and its impact in transforming people and situations.

These examples from scripture show the impact of God's hand on a person or a group. Keep in mind one additional effect. Psalm 37:23-24 - If you do what the LORD wants, he will make certain each step you take is sure. The LORD will hold your hand, and if you stumble, you still won't fall (CEV). God will uphold the righteous so they will not fall under the weight of the challenges they face. They will always come out victorious.

May the hand if the Lord rest upon you for your good and His glory, IJMN, Amen.

Today, I hope you'll join us at 12 Noon EST for Praise & Pray (for others) when we'll honor the Lord with our thanksgiving, intercede for others then meditate (think deeply) on the day's message. God bless you.