“Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.” -Isaiah 41:10
Fear is a powerful force in our world. Fear is the cause of so many actions and reactions in our lives. We must be careful about fear and its effect on our lives. Fear is a natural thing. Fear helps us to be cautious when danger is possible. However, when fear is the only voice we listen to we can become paralyzed.
It is crucial for us to be aware of the voices of fear in our daily lives. Although there are many dangers in the world, fear has a way of getting out of hand. Although fear often begins with a truth, it relies on our overactive imagination. Fear takes hold as we envision the worst-case scenario. We must be mindful of what causes our fear and remember that God is with us and God is our “ever-present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)
As we have been reading through the Bible this year, we have come across many bold statements about fear. God does not intend for His children to live in fear. Over and over again, we are reminded that because God is with us, we should not worry. Here are just a few of the hundreds of reminders about fear in the scriptures:
“I hereby command you: Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” -Joshua 1:9
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4
“…“Be not afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which will come to all the people; for to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” -Luke 2:10-11
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” -John 14:27
“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that in due time he may exalt you. Cast all your anxieties on him, for he cares about you.” – 1 Peter 5:7
The list of problems that cause us great worry is long. Health, politics, finances, family, relationships, and work are just a few of the things that can keep us up at night. But let us remember that more incredible than all these is the love of God, our Father. God is truth. God is trustworthy. “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31)
Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
