It was almost time for Mom and Dad to say good-bye and leave five-year old me—by myself—to spend the night at the hospital.
Yes, there was a pretty, friendly nurse who promised careful attention. But, of course, a strange bed in strange surroundings with strangers in charge, left me feeling very uncomfortable—in addition to the tonsillectomy-induced sore throat.
The thought occurred to me, I should have brought my special blanket. Its soft, pink familiarity would surely make me feel better.
When I expressed my wish out loud, Dad said he’d go home and get it. (It wasn’t far.) Mom stayed until he returned.
Dad’s response surprised me. I thought he’d say, “Don’t worry. You’ll be fine without it.”
But Dad understood this was hard for me, and did what he could to ease my discomfort.
Nonetheless, it took a long time to fall asleep that night. But holding my security blanket close and rubbing my fingers against the satin trim did provide sweet comfort.
Perhaps as a child, you too owned a special blanket or stuffed animal that provided a sense of calm well-being at bedtime. However, part of the maturing process is letting go of such things, right?
No, in actuality, it’s just the source of security that changes as we grow up. Everyone seeks comfort in something, perhaps:
- A settled career that provides a comfortable income
- Meaningful and stable relationships
- Good health, enhanced by careful eating habits and exercise
- Physical safety, procured through security systems, guard dogs, etc.
But all of these examples offer only external security. And no matter how protected a person might feel today, we all know how quickly circumstances can change. Ask the one whose company downsized during the recession, the one whose spouse suddenly wanted “space,” the one who received life-altering news from his doctor, or the one whose computer files were hacked.
What we need is internal security. And that can only be found in God.
At the first sign of distress we can call out to him, asking him to draw especially close (Psalm 145:18).
And when difficult situations linger, we can meditate on God’s wonderful works, as King David did in his psalm of praise, #145. He suggests we:
- Buoy our faith by remembering God’s miracles (vs. 4-6)
- Affirm all the benefits and support he’s supplied (vs. 5-6)
- Keep our minds focused on his glorious attributes (vs, 7-9, 11, 20)
- Review God’s promises—such as those listed in verses 13-16
- Remind ourselves that all his actions are absolutely perfect (v. 17)
Each uplifting thought offers soothing comfort. And strand after strand weaves a virtual security blanket for our souls–a blanket under which we can rest secure.
“The Lord’s beloved rests securely on him.
He shields him all day long,
And he rests on his shoulders.”
–Deuteronomy 33:12 CSB
* * * * * * * * * *
We praise You, Father, for the comfort, peace, and security you provide. You alone are able to make us dwell in safety and serenity, where no lasting harm can penetrate. Thank you for your abundant goodness to care for us as we trust in you.
(Psalm 4:8, 91:4; Romans 11:38; Nahum 1:7)
(Photo credits: http://www.wikimedia.org; http://www.pexels.com; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.dailyverses.net (2); http://www.recreation.gov.)
Is there a particular scripture you turn to for comfort? Please share in the comment section below.
Nancy: Thank you for these beautiful and comforting thoughts!
And thank you, Susan, for being a faithful reader. Praise God you found beauty and comfort in this post!
Your childhood memory prompted one of my own; that of a pink ‘stuffed’ baby doll with a baby face and soft sleeper…with a music box behind a zipper in the back! I was not especially fond of stuffed animals, but this was a special stuffed nighttime pal that I always took to bed. One night the music box broke, breaking my heart. Mom and Dad fixed it that same night! As far as my ‘comfort scripture’, I would have to say Philippians 4:6-7: “6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” As a ‘worrier’, I am so grateful for the Lord’s calming words found in many passages of scripture.
Wow! A music box? Now THAT was one special bedtime lovey! That passage from Philippians is a favorite of mine, too. Those words do provide supreme comfort. Hallelujah!
I loved your story! Oh, how we all can relate to needing security in our lives – no matter what stage we are in! Some Scriptures that give me security and comfort are: Psalm 18:2 – The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold (NIV); Psalm 46:1 – God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (NIV) and 1 Peter 5:7 – Let him have all your worries and cares, for he is always thinking about you and watching everything that concerns you. (TLB) When I place my worries, doubts, fears and troubles in the hands of God, I have assurance all will be ok because He says so. HE is my safe place, my security.
Amen, Tina! And thank you for the uplifting scriptures to add to our list–great examples of how God’s Word can preserve and strengthen us (Psalm 119:25, 28).
Hi Nancy,
Yes, peace from the inside out when life feels inside out. Have a blessed week.
In Christ,
Gary
Well said, Gary, and AMEN!
Ah Nancy, the perfect post for one newly beset by all manner of questions and insecurities! Thank you for gently reminding me of the promises. Feeling tucked in, able to rest.
With you I am so thankful for his promises that provide comfort and hope in times of questions and insecurities. Praise God you are “feeling tucked in, able to rest.” Praying for you and Dreamer…