I would not say that I am claustrophobic, but I will admit that I am not a fan of closed in, tight spaces. I don’t like getting into closets during a tornado warning or closed doors at any time. I want to see the open spaces around me and know that I can walk around freely.

One of my verses in my devotional this morning gave me a new perspective on tight spaces. I don’t mind at all being hemmed in by God’s presence, surrounded by His protection, with His hand on me and telling me that He is there and it’s all going to be okay. That is not a tight space; rather, it is a place where I am free to trust and lean on Him.

There is freedom in knowing that God knows my name. I often wonder if He knows all of the people that are behind each name that I use. But then, I read this verse and know beyond a shadow of a doubt that He knows my name, my nickname, my online names and all about each person that each name represents. That is awesome to think about, especially since as I age, I cannot always recall the names of those whom I know I have met and should know. God knows all of us intimately and completely and that gives me the freedom to offer myself to the only One who truly knows me and still loves me.

May each of you have a blessed and safe day. Let’s continue to pray for those in Florida affected by the devastation of Hurricane Ian. And if you have extra funds to donate, may I suggest Samaritan’s Purse. They have already mobilized and headed to the worst-hit places, taking hope, food, water and medical care with them.

Samaritan’s Purse