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<\/a>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\u2019ve 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.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Wow! Hugs are pretty powerful. And these are just a few benefits found in a hug.<\/p>\n
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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!<\/p>\n
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God\u2019s 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 \u201cHe <\/em>(God) acted with a strong hand and powerful arm. His faithful love endures forever.\u201d <\/em>(Psalm 89:13 \u2013 NLT)<\/p>\n <\/p>\n In Psalm 136, we find a recounting of God\u2019s mighty deeds. And how did He do it? \u201cWith a mighty hand and outstretched arm; His love endures forever<\/em>.\u201d (Psalm 136:12 \u2013 NIV)<\/p>\n <\/p>\n These two verses also tell us why God gives the wonderful hugs that He does. It\u2019s because He loves us! And not with an ordinary love. No, God\u2019s love endures forever and He is faithful in His love for you and me.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Today\u2019s song speaks of God\u2019s hugs. \u201cJust Be Held\u201d reminds us that when we find ourselves in a difficult place, that\u2019s when we need to receive God\u2019s hugs and just be held. Oh sometimes it\u2019s 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\u2019s almighty arms to surround us, we\u2019re able to find peace, comfort and joy. Remember all those benefits listed above? Think of how much better you\u2019ll feel when you are held in the embrace of your Creator.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n So today, take a look at the lyrics and listen to \u201cJust Be Held.\u201d I pray that you will find just what you need in God\u2019s wonderful arms.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cJust Be Held\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hold it all together <\/p>\n And when you’re tired of fighting <\/p>\n Chorus:<\/p>\n So when you’re on your knees and answers seem so far away <\/p>\n If your eyes are on the storm <\/p>\n And not a tear is wasted (Chorus)<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Lift your hands, lift your eyes (Chorus)[i]<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
\nEverybody needs you strong
\nBut life hits you out of nowhere
\nAnd barely leaves you holding on<\/p>\n
\nChained by your control
\nThere’s freedom in surrender
\nLay it down and let it go<\/p>\n
\nYou’re not alone, stop holding on and just be held
\nYour world’s not falling apart, it’s falling into place
\nI’m on the throne, stop holding on and just be held
\nJust be held, just be held<\/p>\n
\nYou’ll wonder if I love you still
\nBut if your eyes are on the cross
\nYou’ll know I always have and I always will<\/p>\n
\nIn time, you’ll understand
\nI’m painting beauty with the ashes
\nYour life is in My hands<\/p>\n
\nIn the storm is where you’ll find Me
\nAnd where you are, I’ll hold your heart
\nI’ll hold your heart
\nCome to Me, find your rest
\nIn the arms of the God who won’t let go<\/p>\n