God’s Gracious Hand

And because the gracious hand of my God was upon me, the king granted my requests.

Nehemiah 2:8

The phrase “the hand (or the gracious hand) of God was upon him” is repeated numerous times in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. God’s “hand” refers to God’s blessing and His active, sovereign engagement in the lives of people. Recently, our family has experienced the gracious hand of God upon us.

After unusual symptoms, my daughter, Allison, went to the doctor. Tests revealed a tumor. However, her symptoms weren’t connected to the tumor. We recognized God’s gracious hand, for God used those symptoms to get Allison to the doctor.

A skilled and highly respected surgeon was booked for months. Yet an appointment became available the week Allison called. The gracious hand of God was upon us.

A previous employer “happened” to call Allison the week the tumor was discovered. These two hadn’t talked in years. The doctor’s brother is a specialist at MD Anderson in the field of Allison’s cancer, and he was consulted regarding her treatment. The gracious hand of God was upon us.

We saw the gracious hand of God going before us in other ways. His presence and blessings have been tangible! How have you witnessed God’s gracious hand going before you?

Nehemiah prayed for God to give him favor before King Artaxerxes, and God did. The king granted every request Nehemiah made. I am praying for many things for Allison, including her healing. Will all my requests be granted? I don’t know, but this I do know—God is faithful, and I can trust Him.   

Years ago, I was gathered with believers from all over the world. A man from China spoke about prayer. He said, "Will God give us what we ask? ...Even if He doesn't, we will still worship God, because our faith is not in an outcome. Our faith is in God!”

Lord, our faith is in you. We say confidently, “You are gracious and good.” Thank you for the tangible evidence of your presence through your gracious acts among us.  

Jan Burkhart