He Won’t Let You Go
Do you feel hopeless?
There’s nothing like a day at the farm between a Dad and his daughter. Climbing trees, throwing rocks in the pond, and searching for bunnies in the field were the order of the day. Until, sounds are heard from the distance. The rustling of trees and falling of leaves can only mean one thing–a storm was approaching.
“Elizabeth, we must get back to the truck before you get wet,” my father said to me. “We are quite a bit away, but let me carry you and we will get there faster.”
I clutched onto my Dad’s neck as he began to jog towards the truck. Tears began streaming down my face as I wondered if we are ever going to make it back safe. I was not at all a fan of a little thunder or lightening.
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“It is okay. Daddy’s here. Daddy’s here and won’t let you go.” As Dad watched my fears elevate with the redness in my cheeks, He repeated those words. He never tired of saying them.
Years later, I have asked my Dad about that experience. His response was intriguing, “Elizabeth, I never felt closer to you than when we were in the rain headed back to the truck. You were scared and I was there–holding you closer and closer. I would not have traded that experience for anything.”
His response made me think about my relationship with the Lord. How many times has God held me closer when the rains pound at my heart? I can handle the rain with the soft but steadfast words of my Heavenly Father saying,
“Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze.
For I am the LORD, your God” (Isaiah 43:1—3 NIV).
Jesus finds great delight in drawing us into His embrace–especially in seasons of brokenness. He would not trade the opportunity to shower upon our hearts His loving kindness towards us.
When the sprinkles turn to showers, leap in your Daddy’s arms. He won’t let you go.
Questions: Think about your relationship with the Lord and recount the many times God has held you closer when troubles arose.
About the Author Elizabeth Withers
I can recall numerous time when my heart and mind was overwhelmed with fear and doubt. I would get so stressed that the tears would just flow. All I could do was repeat to myself that I know the Lord promised never to leave us or forsake us. I’d then pray for comfort. I remember immediately feeling a sense of calm, as if someone was wrapping their arms around me and giving me a hug. I know God I real. I can feel his presence. I thank Him for being there for me.
SO sweet! Brought tears to my eyes! My husband and I have a wonderful six year old girl, who is a definite answer to prayer. When I see my husband hold and carry her, it always melts my heart. What a wonderful thing you had with your father Elizabeth and yes, it’s a picture of how God is with us. Praise the Lord! Thank you for sharing this with us!
sweet story- thank you for giving such a wonderful picture of our heavenly Father.
This beautiful experience with father and daughter brought to mind the sometimes when, at the bedside of someone dying, there would be evidence somewhat of a “battle” going on …. knowing that the person knew the testimony of the love of the Savior – that is what was calmly talked and prayed about …. the Steadfast Love of God to be known right then. The Peace of God which transcends all understanding came upon the dying soul. I don’t have first-hand knowledge of all that personally spiritually may go on in those moments of imminently departing this earthly life – that crossing over – but I am assured of the Father’s love then as here and now. The lovely importance of someone being with the dying person – precious.