I have a framed picture in my office of my favorite aunt and my daughter holding hands and walking out into the ocean surf. I love this picture for a couple of very different reasons. First, because my daughter looks so much like me, it reminds me of times when I was that young holding my aunt’s hand. Those are very fond memories for me and I love that my daughter is getting to have them too.
Second, the picture reminds me of a truth about life and God. When I look at the picture of my aunt holding my daughter’s right hand and they are looking out to the incoming waves, I am reminded that this is God with His children. As we walk out into the ocean we call life, sometimes the waters are still and calm. Other times, the waves are raging and very strong. It can be easy to lose your footing in the riptide pulling you out to deeper water. There are critters and sharp shells in the water too that can be hazardous. It can all be scary if we are alone. But I know that God is always there, taking every step with us holding our hands, and guiding us along the way. I take such comfort in that!
Psalm 73:23-24 reads, “I am continually with You; You have taken hold of my right hand. With Your counsel You will guide me, And afterward receive me to glory.”
As a counselor, part of my task is to be God’s instrument in His work. I am always honored to walk along side someone through the scary rough waters on the journey to healing.
Written by:
Audra Dahl, MA, LPC-S
Professional Counselor
Rush Creek Counseling Center