Nougat 29

In the mood for some good news? Check out today’s Holy Nougat

“You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord. You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭139:4-5‬ ‭NLT‬‬

A hard of blessing. And not just any hand, rather it is God’s hand that rests on us. It’s worth noting that the original speaks to God’s hand being a fence (hedge) of protection. Aside from being a biblical term to connote protection, I recall hedges being things of beauty, adding ornamental value to properties. And though similar to fences, hedges offer that natural element that may hold the soil together, adding nutrients to the soil while offering protection for the residents within.

In Geneva, private residences have very thick hedges of fir trees which can be decorated for holidays. In fact, I recall seeing one home using turf (fake grass) as the connecting material where a tree was missing to preserve the look of the hedges. What I also noticed there was that hedges are also used as a windbreak at winter when it’s a chillier breeze coming off the lake. So, it is beauty and functionality; as privacy, protection and preservation.

So that’s what a blessing looks like. God’s hand hedging us in, adding nutrients, enhancing beauty, providing protection from the elements – supernatural and natural.

Of course, some would ask, ’but if God is my Hedge, why do bad things happen to me?’ And that’s a good question. And when we’re going through and friends, foes, family and others, including our oppressors are prospering, that’s a hard one. Even with Job, the Beatitudes and assurances that we suffer here for glory there. Even with assurance that all things work together for good. For when we are in it and trying to get through it, it’s rough.

I would say that it is in those moments that we hold on to God or draw closer to the Hedge, lest we lose Faith. For God is not a good time only god. Our God is God, steadfast, faithful and true. Perhaps in those moments it is our minds, hearts and spirit that are hedges in, and we pray God’s grace when these are also under attack. I am reminded that Daniel faced the similar situation and it was a battle Royal that eventually was overcome. He remained faithful despite questioning and pleading for divine intervention.

May we see God’s hand round about as we are hedged In from all life sends our way.

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May all we seek be found in Christ