Our Daily Bread: Called to ServeNäide

What’s Next?

If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me. —Psalm 139:9–10

“In an ER, you never know what each day will bring,” says Dale, an emergency room physician. “But I believe that God has brought the patient and me together. I’ll do the best I can with the skills I have, but ultimately I rely on God to guide my words and actions.”

When the phone call comes in alerting the ER that an ambulance will be arriving with a patient in critical condition, Dale prepares himself and the rest of the medical team for whatever will be coming through the doors.

Even seasoned and skilled first responders face unique and complicated situations that require strength and insight beyond their natural abilities. Psalm 139, a psalm about God’s guidance, reminds Dale that God knows everything he is facing. The psalmist affirms that no matter where we are, and regardless of the situation, “Even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me” (Psalm 139:10).

Trauma situations are often chaotic and disorienting but God promises to be with us in the midst of challenging assignments. He has placed us in this particular position and equipped us to offer assistance. He promises to direct us and provide the stability we need to accomplish the task before us.

When the next call comes, we can remind ourselves that the Lord has promised to guide us and hold us no matter what comes next.

Lisa Samra

Depending on the Lord isn’t weakness; it’s acknowledging His strength.