In the life of every believer, there exists a mighty force that finds its way through every moment and circumstance. This mighty force is the hand of God, a powerful and guiding force that shapes our existence. In Isaiah 41:10, God promised to uphold us with His righteous right hand. He says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” God asks us to fear nothing, for His hand is always working in our lives. I want you to know that this does not mean that everything will be okay but that we should find comfort and strength in every situation since God will always be there to uphold us.
In this article, we will explore the concept of God’s hand at work in the life of a believer. We shall unravel the symbolism it carries and understand the ways in which it truly operates.
Understanding God’s Hand
The Bible frequently speaks of God’s hand, a metaphor that symbolizes His presence, power, authority, and influence in the lives of His people. It is more than a mere figure of speech; it embodies the intimate involvement of God in the affairs of humanity. When we refer to God’s hand at work in our lives, we acknowledge His sovereignty, authority, and dominance.
In the Scriptures, the hand of God often represents His creative power, as seen in the account of the formation of Adam: “Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature,” (Genesis 2:7 ESV). Here, we witness God’s intimate involvement in the act of creation, molding and shaping humanity with His own hands.
Additionally, God’s hand is a symbol of His guidance and protection. In Psalm 32:8 (ESV), we read, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.” This verse illustrates the tender care of a loving God who guides His children with a watchful eye, directing their steps according to His divine plan.
How God’s Hand Works in Our Lives
There are many ways through which we see and experience the hand of the Lord working in our lives. God’s hand works in both our good and sad moments. We can experience it through;
· Divine Provision
God’s hand operates through the provision that governs the universe. While the Israelites were moving from Egypt to Canaan, God proved that His hand was with them by providing for them. He provided manna and quails in the wilderness. He also miraculously provided them with water in miraculous ways whenever they felt thirsty. What does this mean? This means that God’s hand can manifest through the fulfillment of our heart desires. Personally, I have heard people testify that they have seen the hand of the Lord when He provided for them what they thought was impossible for them to get. Take this example; a person who is wondering where to get finances to clear their loans, pay school fees, or sort out their bill meets someone who helps them out. Isn’t this the hand of the Lord at work? That is our God and just like He provided in the wilderness, His hand will also work in our times of need
· Answered Prayer
Prayer is a powerful medium through which we connect with God. When we pray, we invite God’s hand to intervene in our lives. In Matthew 7:7-8 (ESV), Jesus encourages us, saying, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.” God’s hand responds to the cries of His children, bringing about answers to prayer that align with His perfect will.
· Scripture and Revelation
The Word of God serves as a lamp to our feet and a light to our path, Psalm 119:105 (ESV). Through the Scriptures, God’s hand imparts wisdom, guidance, and revelation. As we immerse ourselves in His Word, we discover the principles and promises that shape our lives. The Holy Spirit, often referred to as the Counselor, enables believers to grasp the truths in God’s Word, guiding them in their daily decisions and actions.
· Circumstances and Challenges
Even in the midst of trials, God’s hand is at work in our lives. In Romans 8:28, the Bible says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” God’s hand does not just work in some situations or circumstances. Rather, He still works even in the bad times so that He can change them to something good.
Joseph, in the Old Testament, experienced betrayal and hardship but later acknowledged God’s hand in everything, saying, “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today,” Genesis 50:20 (ESV). God’s hand can turn adversity into great opportunities, using challenges to refine and strengthen His children. When we encounter challenges and we find the grace to navigate through them, it proves to us that God’s hand is working in our lives. It is only through the hand of the Lord that we can find the strength to soar above the storms and every challenge that comes our way.
· God’s Hand Shatters the Schemes of the Enemy
Exodus 15:6 (NIV) – “Your right hand, Lord, was majestic in power. Your right hand, Lord, shattered the enemy.” This reminds us that God’s hand is not passive but actively engaged in breaking the schemes of the enemy. As believers, we can take refuge in the assurance that His right hand is majestic in power.
Through divine intervention, protection, prayerful resistance, unwavering faith, and the victory secured through Christ, we can stand confidently, knowing that God’s hand is at work, shattering the plans of those who oppose us. He fights those who fight against us and contends with those who contend with any aspect of our lives. God promised to fight on our behalf and to shield us from all the weapons formed against us. When enemies turn against you but you overcome all their wicked plans, this is a sure sign of God working in your life. In the face of adversity, let us trust in the authority and strength of God’s hand, finding comfort and courage in the knowledge that He is our ultimate refuge and deliverer.
· God’s Hand Protects
Psalms 91:4-6 (NIV) – “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings, you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday.” When God’s hand is upon you, no plague or disaster shall come near your dwelling. You will be protected from sicknesses, attacks, and danger. Even though many may succumb to the disasters that happen in your surroundings, God will rescue you and keep you safe under His feathers. Take the example of Lot. God saved him from the destruction that happened in Sodom and Gomorrah. He survived because God’s hand was working in His life.
· God’s Hand Brings Unity and Harmony
2 Chronicles 30:12 (NIV) – “Also in Judah the hand of God was on the people to give them unity of mind to carry out what the king and his officials had ordered, following the word of the Lord.”
It is the Spirit of the Lord that gathers people together, Isaiah 34:16. And it is also His hand that keeps them together in unity and harmony. God’s hand saves relationships from strife, communities from division, and marriages from separation.
· God’s Hand Brings Justice
God is a righteous God who advocates for the justice of all who believe in Him. Psalms 89:13-15 says, “Your arm is endowed with power; your hand is strong, your right hand exalted. Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you. Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, Lord.” We experience God’s hand when righteousness, fairness, and justice prevail. The world is corrupt, wicked, and filled with evil, but when God’s hand is working in our lives, we won’t fall victim to any form of injustice.
Conclusion
As we journey through the twists and turns of life, let us recognize the hand of God, a steady and unwavering force that shapes our destinies. Embrace the truth that God’s hand is not distant or indifferent but intimately involved in every aspect of your life. His hand actively shapes, guides, and empowers you to fulfill the purpose for which you were created.
