Do you know some people who just make you feel better because of the way they hug? A friend. A parent. A spouse. A child. Sometimes a hug is just what it takes to remove the junk this world throws on us.

So what is so special about a hug? Why do they make us feel like they do? A quick search of the internet will show us that hugs can be powerful. They’ve been shown to lower blood pressure. Hugs can reduce our heart rate. Research has shown that hugs are a natural stress reliever. Hugs can ease depression.

Wow! Hugs are pretty powerful. And these are just a few benefits found in a hug.

Imagine what beautiful benefits we receive when we allow ourselves to be embraced by the Almighty God? How about salvation? Strength? Courage? Protection? I could a little of each of those today!

God’s arms are big enough, strong enough and far-reaching enough to provide the powerful hugs we need. We read in the Book of Psalms that “He (God) acted with a strong hand and powerful arm. His faithful love endures forever.” (Psalm 89:13 – NLT)

In Psalm 136, we find a recounting of God’s mighty deeds. And how did He do it? “With a mighty hand and outstretched arm; His love endures forever.” (Psalm 136:12 – NIV)

These two verses also tell us why God gives the wonderful hugs that He does. It’s because He loves us! And not with an ordinary love. No, God’s love endures forever and He is faithful in His love for you and me.

Today’s song speaks of God’s hugs. “Just Be Held” reminds us that when we find ourselves in a difficult place, that’s when we need to receive God’s hugs and just be held. Oh sometimes it’s difficult. We want to be in control. We want to figure things out on our own. But in reality, when we stop squirming and allow God’s almighty arms to surround us, we’re able to find peace, comfort and joy. Remember all those benefits listed above? Think of how much better you’ll feel when you are held in the embrace of your Creator.

So today, take a look at the lyrics and listen to “Just Be Held.” I pray that you will find just what you need in God’s wonderful arms.

“Just Be Held”

Hold it all together
Everybody needs you strong
But life hits you out of nowhere
And barely leaves you holding on

And when you’re tired of fighting
Chained by your control
There’s freedom in surrender
Lay it down and let it go

Chorus:

So when you’re on your knees and answers seem so far away
You’re not alone, stop holding on and just be held
Your world’s not falling apart, it’s falling into place
I’m on the throne, stop holding on and just be held
Just be held, just be held

If your eyes are on the storm
You’ll wonder if I love you still
But if your eyes are on the cross
You’ll know I always have and I always will

And not a tear is wasted
In time, you’ll understand
I’m painting beauty with the ashes
Your life is in My hands

(Chorus)

Lift your hands, lift your eyes
In the storm is where you’ll find Me
And where you are, I’ll hold your heart
I’ll hold your heart
Come to Me, find your rest
In the arms of the God who won’t let go

(Chorus)[i]

Click here if you’d like to hear Casting Crowns sing this song!

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna

[i] “Just Be Held,” Words and Music by John Mark Hall, Matthew West, Bernie Herms, My Refuge Music, Sony/ATV Music Publishing, Songs of Universal, G650 Music, Songs of Southside, External Com-usion, Songs for Delaney, 2013.