The power of a hug

Yesterday was particularly hard for me as I struggled with feelings of insecurity—issues that I know I shouldn't let bother me, yet they still weighed heavily on my heart. In the midst of my struggles, I went upstairs and prayed. While talking to God, I expressed my longing to physically hug Him, yearning for His tangible presence as my Father. I realize how strange that may sound, but there are moments when I wish I could reach out and touch Him, feeling that closeness. Although I pray in faith, I sometimes find that my prayers become routine, a way to release pent-up feelings rather than a true connection.

Fast forward to today: I had church. This morning, I woke up angry and frustrated, unsure of the reason behind my emotions. The thought of skipping church crossed my mind, but I pushed through. Once at church, the atmosphere shifted as true worship began, and everyone around me was genuinely connecting with God. I remember the pastor saying something about surrendering to God, and I found myself wrestling with that idea. I felt frustrated because I wanted to let go, but I didn’t know how.

During worship, as the pastor anointed us, I closed my eyes and continued to seek God’s presence. However, I felt a sense of His presence lifting as I wrestled internally. It was as if I understood why I felt distanced from Him; I was struggling to surrender fully. I didn’t want Him to leave, but I felt a tension within me. As the pastor moved around the congregation, he eventually came to me and began to pray. I couldn’t hear his words, but in that moment, I chose to surrender and say “yes” to God because I desperately wanted His presence to remain.

As the pastor prayed, I found myself weeping uncontrollably, letting go of pride and embarrassment as tears streamed down my face. I was fully submitted to God, and in that vulnerability, a group of women surrounded me in prayer. One of them, a woman named Mother Scott, whom I deeply admire, hugged me. In that embrace, I felt God’s presence in a way I had longed for. It was as if I was hugging my Father back, feeling His love and comfort through her. 

Who would have thought that something as simple as a hug—something I give freely—could carry such profound meaning? That moment reminded me of the power of embrace. It brought me peace, strength, security, love, and empowerment. Never underestimate the impact of a hug. If you feel led to share one, regardless of how silly it may seem or how the person appears, remember that you never know what they might be going through. Your hugs have the potential to bring healing and comfort in ways you might not expect.