Psalm 23 has a powerful, but difficult truth in the sentence “I will fear no evil for you are with me.” How can the psalmist make such a powerful claim – not to fear? Unfortunately, we are being reminded of just how much evil, hatred, and injustice are present in the world today. The tragedy of lives lost and the number of these events that surrounds us so easily brings fear to our lives. But the words of scripture continue to remind us that God is always with us. The Bible tells us again and again “do not fear” and that “God is with us”. And because God is with us, he gives us power and love to face our fears. A great verse to know and memorize when you feel afraid is 2 Timothy 1:7 which says, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
It is faith in God that gets us through the most difficult and terrifying times. I also love the quote that says “Fear ends where faith begins.” When we put our faith in who God is and remember God’s continual presence in no matter what we face, fear begins to fade away. Putting our focus on our faith in God gives us a new perspective. It doesn’t change the circumstances, but it does change our hearts. Our hearts may be changed so that we can face the next day even when we are in the deepest, darkest valley. Our hearts may be changed so that we can feel more free to share hope and love with others.
Amy Givens, Director of Youth Ministry
