Take a Hand

One of my sweetest memories as a first-time mother was taking my son's hand, holding it tightly as we walked across a city street. At the time, he was none to fond of the secure grip I had! As he spoke to Mary of her pregnancy, the angel said: "And listen! Your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is now the sixth month with her who was called barren ... And she [Mary] went to the house of Zachariah and, entering it, saluted Elizabeth." (Luke 1:36, 40, AMP). One of the most foolish moves Believers make during difficult times is attempting to walk-through hard times ... alone. God said, "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up" (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, ESV). The Father never intends for His children to experience despair or become discouraged from feelings that they walk alone. Jesus Himself said to His followers in John 15:13: "Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends," which is exactly what He did for those who love Him. How characteristic of God that He ordained it that Mary and Elizabeth walk together at this time - giving to one another love, encouragement and support. God has kindly and graciously given us other Believers - that is, the Body of Christ, His Church - with whom to walk hand-in-hand. It's very likely someone you know has their hand extended ... take it and grip it tightly!