July 12, 2023: The Hand Of Our God

...The hand of our God is for good on all who seek him..." (Ezra 8:22, ESV)

What does it mean to have the hand of God upon you? Ezra uses this expression several times, and each time it is good. In Ezra 7:6, the hand of God referred to God's favor on Ezra's life. In 7:9, the hand of God referred to safety and protection. In 7:28, Ezra took courage because the hand of God was upon him. In 7:18, Ezra was given a team member of profound understanding because God's 'good' hand was on them. In 7:22, Ezra rejoices because he knows God's hand is upon them and that all things are possible if they trust Him. 
    
God's invisible and intangible hand is also upon us who believe and seek Him. Just like Ezra, we should expect favor, safety, protection, courage, wisdom, and joy—all because we know His hand is upon us too! Like Moses, God hides us in the cleft of the Rock and covers us with His hand. Take time to think of moments throughout your life when you know God's hand has been upon you. Give Him praise! Thank Him!
    
I feel like all of my life has been lived with the hand of the Lord upon me, even when I was not a follower of Jesus. It is hard to explain, but I know I have had the favor of the Lord upon me for a long time.  "...The hand of our God is for good on all who seek him..." (Ezra 8:22, ESV)