I was born right handed, but in the middle of my junior year in high school, I tried to change that. I am not entirely sure why, I just thought it would be cool to be left handed. So, I switched my watch to my right hand, tried to hold my fork in the other hand and started taking some notes with my left. It didn’t last long!

Truth is, about 15% of the world’s population are left handed. The right side of their brain is the dominant hemisphere. Theories abound as to why some are born favoring their left side, but it appears it is the result of both genetic and environment factors. And, it seems that both orientations have their advantages. One study (by Dr. Alan Searleman of the St. Lawrence University in New York) says that a left handed person may be significantly better at problem solving and have a higher IQ as well. A different study suggests that a right handed person may live considerably longer.

The Bible has quite a bit to say about God’s right hand (“yamiyn”). He uses that hand to accomplish salvation for His people. David declares that God “saves his anointed…with the saving strength of his right hand.” (Ps. 20:6)

God’s right hand provides strength and stamina for His people. Once again, David writes, “My soul follows hard after thee, thy right hand upholds me.” (Ps. 63:8) God’s right hand also promises security for His children. Psalm 110:1 is often quoted emphasizing the believer’s safety in Jesus. It says, “The Lord said unto my Lord, sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool.”

But, the scripture also focuses on our right hands. God assuages our fears through the words of Isaiah, “For I the Lord thy God will hold your right hand, saying unto you, Fear not, I will help you.” And in Acts 3, when Peter heals a beggar, “he took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.”

So, this week, as you motor through your daily life, take a good look around you and notice the right and left handers in your world. As you take note of their directionality, take note of God’s grace to us all. And remember, as God’s right hand grasps our hands…health and healing come from that touch!

By His Grace and for His Glory,
Sherry L. Worel