Multiple times in the Old Testament, we find the imagery of God’s right hand. And in Psalm 18:35, it is that right hand that promises to sustain us.
“You give me your shield of victory, and your right hand sustains me.” (NIV).
For many of us, the right hand is dominant, especially useful for situations when we need extra strength, as in opening a jar or lifting the car trunk. What is it about the hand’s dominance that signifies strength?
Throughout scripture, the right hand illustrates: authority, strength, honor, and position. Jesus himself sits at the right hand of God. (Acts 7:55). Children are chosen for special blessings by the right hand of a patriarchal figure. (Genesis 48:14-19).
Using this metaphor, we may think of God as being dominant and the key authority. But a more personal meaning surfaces when we apply the right hand of God as a sustaining form of power.
To be sustained during our challenges, we need the strongest possible help. We need to know that God’s abundant strength is working on our behalf. Asking for the sustaining strength of God can be our prayer language during difficult times. And God honors us by answering that request.
The historical significance of being honored on the right hand reminds us how God treats his beloved children. He promises to honor us, deliver us, and be with us in trouble. (Psalm 91:15). The Hebrew word, ‘Kavod,’ means ‘something that is weighty, significant, and of high value.’
God considers that we have significant weight in his kingdom. As his created beings, we are highly valued. We have a purpose. This truth leads us to a place of humility and gratitude. That the God of the universe, this divine Trinity, would consider us worth saving. Reciprocal love grows in our hearts. To praise God daily for his amazingly intimate care of us frail humans.
The right hand of God upholds us. His sustaining strength deletes the panic of fear. It erases the despair of whatever challenges us. And it promises the intimate presence of God. Isaiah 41:10 makes the point:
“Fear not, for I am with you. Be no dismayed. I am your God. I will strengthen you.
I will help you. I will uphold you with my powerful right hand.” (NIV).
Consider memorizing Isaiah 41:10. This verse has carried me through a multitude of challenges, and I still repeat it often. It’s a reminder of the power of God which is carried through his loving right hand.
©2026 RJ Thesman – All Rights Reserved
Image Attribution: geralt / Pixabay
Read more about the sustaining power of God in Sustain Us, Oh Lord: Finding Strength When Life is Hard.
Yes, that is a wonderful verse to keep in one’s heart and mind.