There Is a Hand...

Psalm 139:23-24Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. There is a Hand to which faith clings with confidence secureA hand that fits us with armor that fits us for the fightAnd helps us in thick of opposition to endureAs we trust His command and make His love our chief delightAs we rely on He who tries and tests our hearts and mindsTo see if there be any wicked way that persists stillTo mar His perfect peace because of pride that blindly bindsUs to the pattern of this world rather than to His will There is a Hand that draws us to the comfort of His WordHe leads in paths of righteousness through valleys of despairAnd fills us with fresh wonder for His mercies, undeterredTo we, often forgetful of His faithful, loving careHe guides and keeps, while calling sheep still wandering and lostHis arms always wide open to welcome prodigals backTo kiss His hands, scarred with reminders of redemption’s costHands still outstretched to all who still reject love without lack © Janet Martin Psalm 34:8-14Taste and see that the Lord is good;blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.Fear the Lord, you his holy people,for those who fear him lack nothing.The lions may grow weak and hungry,but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.Come, my children, listen to me;I will teach you the fear of the Lord.Whoever of you loves lifeand desires to see many good days,keep your tongue from eviland your lips from telling lies.Turn from evil and do good;seek peace and pursue it.