It had been a rough night. Fear and anxiety was like a strong coffee keeping me awake. I decided to climb in bed with my son, who was resting peacefully. I find so much pleasure and peace in watching him sleep.

As I quietly crawled into his bed, I pulled the covers over us and gently wrapped my arms around him.

He was so peaceful, so relaxed. I embraced him tightly, holding my arms around him as he slept. I kissed his forehead and gently placed his treasured, stuffed-duck back into his arms.

As I lie there enjoying the moment, a question came to mind: "Do you think Caleb has any idea you are there holding him, kissing him, protecting him, lavishing your love upon him?"

"No," I thought.

Then I felt the Lord speak to my heart, "Russ, the same is true for me. I am holding you, kissing you, protecting you, lavishing my love upon you; yet, you have no idea that I am here with you."

In that moment, I felt a new sense of God's presence. It's not a presence that is tangible; it's a presence that is accepted by faith, knowing that my Father is there...

 
 	embracing me,
 	protecting me,
 	holding me,
 	pouring out his love for me.
 

Next time you feel alone, abandoned, away from God, know that God is not away from you. He is closer that you realize. He is holding you, loving you, enjoying your presence. He is singing songs over you--songs of peace and freedom. Songs of deliverance. He is your hiding place. He will shelter you in his arms of love.

"You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance" (Psalms 32:7).

Blessings!

Russell

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|  Russell Pond     <><
|  Season of Peace
|  email:  ponder@season.org
|  web:    http://www.season.org

© Russell Pond 1999
Reprinted with permission