Held by the Right Hand of God
Strength for Every Season
A Symbol of Power, Grace, and Redemption
The “right hand of God” is a profound and recurring theme throughout Scripture, rich with symbolism and meaning. It represents not only His power and authority but also His intimate care, compassion, and faithfulness to His people. To speak of God’s right hand is to speak of His active involvement in the world—delivering justice, offering protection, and extending grace. It is at God’s right hand that we find refuge from life’s storms, strength in our weakness, and ultimate victory over sin and death through Jesus Christ. This theme weaves through both the Old and New Testaments, revealing the consistent character of a God who is both mighty to save and tender in His love. The right hand of God is not a distant symbol but a living reality that invites us into relationship and anchors us in His unchanging promises.
The Right Hand of Power
The psalmist declares, “Your right hand, O Lord, glorious in power, your right hand, O Lord, shatters the enemy” (Exodus 15:6, ESV). This verse celebrates God’s unmatched power to deliver His people, as demonstrated in the Exodus when He led Israel out of slavery with miraculous displays of His might. God’s right hand is both a weapon against the forces of evil and a shield for those who trust in Him.
Matthew Henry writes, “When God exerts His power, He does so in ways that astonish His enemies and strengthen His people. His right hand is always mighty to save.” This dual action—bringing judgment on the wicked while ensuring the salvation of His people—shows that His power is both just and redemptive. Alexander Maclaren similarly observes, “In the right hand of God lies not only strength but the assurance of victory for all who trust in Him.” To trust in God’s right hand is to rest in the certainty of His ultimate triumph over evil.
This power is fully realized in Christ, as the New Testament confirms. Jesus told the high priest, “You will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power and coming with the clouds of heaven” (Mark 14:62, ESV). Here, the “right hand of Power” signifies Jesus’ authority, not just as Savior but as the reigning King who will return in glory. Eugene Peterson explains, “The right hand of God becomes the position where Jesus, fully victorious, intercedes for us. It is the source of unshakable hope.” For believers, this means that God’s power is not distant or abstract—it is present, active, and deeply personal, assuring victory, intercession, and hope in every circumstance.
The Right Hand of Grace
The right hand of God also extends His grace to His people, offering not only strength but the gift of joy and intimate fellowship. Psalm 16:11 declares, “At your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” This verse points to the unparalleled satisfaction found in God’s presence—a joy that transcends the fleeting happiness of this world and anchors the soul in eternal delight.
C.S. Lewis captures this beautifully: “The joy at God’s right hand is not just happiness, but a deep, eternal satisfaction found in His presence alone.” This joy is not rooted in circumstances but in the unchanging character of God, who invites His people into communion with Him. Similarly, Charles Spurgeon reflects on the privilege of this invitation: “What higher honor could God bestow than to place us at His right hand, as He does with His beloved Son?” Being at God’s right hand signifies a position of favor, belonging, and love—a reality made possible through Christ.
John Calvin adds depth to this understanding: “To be at God’s right hand is to be upheld and preserved by His grace. It is not earned, but freely given to those who trust in Him.” This grace underscores the unmerited nature of the relationship God offers. We are upheld not by our own efforts but by His steadfast love and mercy. The right hand of God, therefore, is a place where divine grace overflows, drawing us into a life marked by joy, security, and unshakable hope in His eternal promises.
The Right Hand of Redemption
The ultimate expression of God’s right hand is seen in the redemptive work of Christ. Hebrews 1:3 proclaims, “After making purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.” This signifies the completion of Christ’s mission on earth and His exaltation to a position of eternal authority. Timothy Keller highlights the profound significance of this, stating, “The right hand of God is the place of finished work. Jesus’ declaration, ‘It is finished,’ is completed as He takes His seat at God’s right hand.” At the cross, Christ accomplished what no human effort could achieve, and His enthronement ensures the permanence of His victory.
Derek Prince adds, “The cross was not the end but the gateway to the throne, where Christ reigns eternally at the right hand of God.” This truth reframes the crucifixion not as a defeat but as a prelude to Christ’s eternal reign, where He intercedes for His people and rules with divine authority. The right hand of God, therefore, becomes the ultimate symbol of His triumph over sin and death.
Patrick Miller emphasizes how this impacts believers: “Because Jesus is at God’s right hand, we are assured of our salvation, secure in His love, and confident in His justice.” Knowing that Christ sits at the right hand of God gives believers an unshakable foundation for faith. It assures us that salvation is complete, our relationship with God is secure, and His justice will prevail. The redemptive work of Christ at God’s right hand provides not only eternal hope but also daily confidence to live as His redeemed people.
God’s Right Hand in Our Lives
David Guzik notes, “God’s right hand is not just a distant reality; it is a present help. As Psalm 73:23 says, ‘Nevertheless, I am continually with you; you hold my right hand.’” This verse beautifully illustrates the intimacy of God’s presence. His right hand is not merely a symbol of His authority but also a personal touch of His care, guiding us through every challenge and uncertainty.
N.T. Wright expands this idea: “To be held by God’s right hand is to be guided, protected, and empowered to live in His kingdom. It is both a comfort and a call to action.” In other words, God’s right hand doesn’t just shield us from harm but also equips and inspires us to fulfill His purposes on earth. This dual role of comfort and empowerment reminds us of our identity as co-laborers in Christ.
Walter Brueggemann reflects on the assurance of this promise, “When we walk through the uncertainties of life, the right hand of God steadies us, reminding us of His unchanging faithfulness.” In a world that often feels unpredictable, the steadfastness of God’s right hand provides a secure foundation, assuring us that we are never left alone. This unchanging faithfulness is not only a reason for personal peace but also a testament to God’s unrelenting commitment to His people. Together, these insights remind us that the right hand of God is always reaching out to strengthen, guide, and uphold us in love.
A Short Prayer
Father God, thank You for the strength, grace, and redemption found in Your mighty right hand. Help us to trust in Your power when we feel weak, to rest in Your grace when we feel unworthy, and to rejoice in Your victory when we feel defeated. Guide us daily with Your right hand, that we may walk in faith and glorify You in all we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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