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
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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.
From the Inside Out 