Daily Bread September 18

The Hand of God
Amy Blankenship of White River Junction, VT, USA


Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. -Psalm 19:14

I remember hearing a story as a young teenager, a story my grandma shared of feeling the touch of God’s hand upon her shoulder. I remember the feeling of awe in knowing that my grandma had experienced such a spiritual experience as this. I was unaware at the time that I would later in life have the blessing of a similar experience when I was very ill. I was lying in bed when I felt God’s presence as if it were a hand on my shoulder. God brought me comfort in the midst of the storm, in a time of my life that was scary and confusing.

You see at this time of my illness I was experiencing symptoms of hyperthyroidism, which was only later detected by doctors. It’s an illness that brings with it many symptoms, one being severe depression. I remember praying and reading God’s Word, desiring to feel God’s presence, and yet feeling that God was so far away. It was at this time in my life-at a time when I so desperately needed reassurance-that God touched me with love.

Are you feeling alone? Are you feeling confused, scared? I just want to reassure you that God is there. God’s hand is upon you to comfort you in the midst of the storms of life. God wants you to feel God’s presence and peace. God wants you to know and experience this kind of love, a love that only God can give-a love that is like no other!

Prayer Phrase

“Be vulnerable to divine grace” (Doctrine and Covenants Section 163:10b).

Spiritual Practice

This month, spend time each day noticing where divine grace is already pouring forth. Perhaps it is a simple awareness of creation’s systems and cycles that support our daily existence. The sun rises each day without being asked. There are underlying rhythms and relationships that hold the fabric of our lives together. Sometimes they fall into the background of our lives. We forget to see the natural generosity that spills over throughout our days-of the planet, the people we love, the Sacred Presence in all moments, the kindness of strangers we encounter, and the gifts we carry within. What is already being given in your life? What does it look like to be vulnerable to divine grace today?

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.

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