Read: Psalm 139:7-12
If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. (vv. 9-10 NIV)
One of Emily Dickinson’s popular poems speaks of a little bird as a metaphor for hope. “‘Hope’ is the thing with feathers – / That perches in the soul – / And sings the tune without the words – / And never stops – at all.” She refers to a gale, the storm, “the chillest land” and “strangest Sea” as obstacles and forces that can’t keep the bird from singing.
The poet of Psalm 139 also clung to hope, to the assurance that no matter what happens or where we go, we cannot fly away from God’s presence and protection. During dark seasons and uncertain times, when words are inadequate or when we feel there are just “no words,” we can have confidence that God is in control and knows exactly where we are and what we are going through. We cannot run away nor fly too far away from him. In fact, his hand will guide us and hold us fast (v. 10).
Even without words, the simple melody of a bird’s song is beautiful and comforting. On days when you do not have the words to express your feelings, know that God is with you and is guiding you, whether you’re searching for a place to land, soaring over a sea, or clinging to the persistent hope in your soul. —Denise Vredevoogd
As you pray, may you sense God’s presence, regardless of where you find yourself.
About the Author
Denise Vredevoogd is a private piano teacher who lives near Grand Rapids, Michigan. She enjoys reading, writing, gardening, and spending time in nature with her adult sons and daughters.
