Everlasting arms

The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. — Deuteronomy 33:27

After a rehearsal in New York City’s Carnegie Hall, Randall Atcheson sat on stage alone. He had successfully navigated the intricate piano compositions of Beethoven, Chopin, and Liszt for the evening program, and he wanted to play one more piece for himself. What came from his heart and his hands was an old hymn: "What have I to dread, what have I to fear, leaning on the everlasting arms? I have blessed peace with my Lord so near, leaning on the everlasting arms."

Those words echo the truth in the final blessing of Moses: "There is no one like the God of Jerusalem, who rides the heavens to help you, and in His excellency on the clouds. The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms" (Deut. 33:26-27).

What a gift we have in our own arms and hands — they can swing a hammer, hold a child, or help a friend. But while our strength is limited, God’s boundless power on our behalf is expressed in might and gentle care. "Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save" (Isa. 59:1). "He will gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom" (Isa. 40:11).

Whatever challenge or opportunity you face, there is security and peace in His everlasting arms.— David McCasland

What a fellowship, what a joy divine,

Leaning on the everlasting arms;

O how bright the path grows from day to day.

Leaning on the everlasting arms.— Hoffman

READ: Deuteronomy 33:26-29

The heavenly Father’s arms never tire of holding His children.

The Bible in one year:

• Numbers 17-19

• Mark 6:30-56