“Uppie!” my granddaughter, Lucie, said as she reached her arms toward me. As soon as I scooped her up, Lucie pointed in the direction she wanted to go. We walked our usual route around the house. She said hello to the quail décor perched high on the windowsill, played a few keys on the piano, and then pressed the buttons on the dryer so they beeped. I enjoyed every moment of indulging her wishes. Uppie, short for “up, please,” is the cutest phrase I’ve ever heard. It works like magic, even when I’ve just sat down.
It reminds me of my son years ago when he asked to be picked up. He would say, “Hold you” instead of “Hold me.” He learned it from my asking him, “Do you want me to hold you?” when he reached for me. How sweet that children’s earliest expressions often convey their desire to be held.
Not everyone is held when they yearn for it. Sometimes the reasons are unintentional and temporary, such as when parents are busy. However, in some families, parents seldom hold their children, which leaves them yearning for assurance and connection. No matter our age or circumstance, we need comfort, security, and love. Whether young or old, we all need to be held.
During one season as an adult, I experienced a painful betrayal and desperately needed comfort. I felt unloved and rejected, and I needed to be held by a love that would never let me go. I meditated on God’s Word until it saturated my soul. Whenever my heart ached, I recalled verses from memory and sensed His protection and care. Sometimes I tangibly felt God’s presence envelop me with His peace and love. I would sit and soak in it. Looking back, I marvel at how an invisible God comforted me in that way.
During that season, these verses became my favorites:
“He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.”
Photographer Unknown
“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.”
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
“He tends his flock like a shepherd. He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.”
During that season, a dear mentor of mine gave me the picture of a momma bird covering her two chicks (above), to remind me of God’s loving care.
Whether your soul desires connection, like a child who simply wants up, or is heavy with sorrow, I hope you will soak in the comfort of God’s love today. Rest assured, whenever you reach for Him, He will gladly respond.
Attachment: 'God You've Never Failed Me' by Ian Yates