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Weddings are full of excitement and emotion, with beautiful gowns, long aisles, and hearts full of anticipation. But if you’ve ever been a bride, you’re familiar with the quiet fear of tripping or stumbling on the way to the altar.

When my daughter Katelyn chose her dress, we laughed and planned together, but underneath there was the same thought I had on my wedding day: How do I make it down the aisle without falling?

The picture of a bride taking her father’s arm is the image God placed on my heart. A loving father doesn’t simply meet his daughter halfway. He stays with her for every step, steadying her, whispering reassurance, and ensuring she reaches her bridegroom unscathed. His role is to present her beautiful, confident and whole.

The Father of the Bride

Jude 24 (NKJV) says, “Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy…”

This is the Holy Spirit’s role in our lives. He is more than a helper; He is the Father of the Bride. The Holy Spirit comes alongside us and says, “Lean on Me. I will get you there. I will present you faultless.”

The journey of faith isn’t about reaching heaven bruised and barely holding on. God promises to carry us all the way and to present us radiant—our spiritual garments bright and unspoiled—because we trusted His strength, not our own.

Staying in Step

However, there’s a vital key required. A bride must walk in step with her father. If she rushes ahead or pulls away, the walk becomes awkward and unsafe. Likewise, we need to stay in rhythm with the Holy Spirit. Listening, obeying, and sometimes slowing our pace to match His. When hidden reefs or unseen dangers threaten, He already knows the way through. He’s the master navigator who sees what we cannot.

Strong to the Finish

Despite life’s pressures, end-time challenges, and unexpected trials leaving us shaky, the Holy Spirit’s strong arm is steady. He doesn’t just promise to get us across the finish line, but He promises to bring us there whole. Full of peace, joy and spiritual fruit.

Whatever you’re facing today, hear His whisper:

Lean on Me. I’ve got this. Stay in step with Me, and I will present you faultless, with exceeding joy.