The Gracious Hand of God

Throughout the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, the scribe Ezra continually remarks, “The gracious hand of God was upon me.” He makes this claim through good times and bad; through celebrations and opposition; through success and danger. I love this claim. 

Ezra had spent his life, not only studying his faith but living it. Over the years, he had come to know God’s presence, protection, and guidance firsthand. He reminds us that there is more to this everyday life than what we see. 

Lately, I’ve adopted Ezra’s claim for my own life. “The gracious hand of God is upon me.”  I’ve adopted it because I know it’s true.  And it is true for you as well. 

Today, I pray that you would pause long enough to recognize the many blessings that surround you. And may you notice the gracious hand of God at work in your life – even now.

Let us pray: God of hope, today we remember the words of the Apostle Paul that if you are with us, who is against us? We remember that you are bigger than any obstacle we face. We remember that your love is deep and your grace is sufficient. Open our eyes to see your hand at work – even in our everyday lives. 

We pray today, especially for those who might need an extra measure of your grace and guidance this day. We pray also for friends or neighbors we know are struggling. Draw near to them – and grant them your hope. Amen.