Do Not Be Afraid
As this battle rages we have two terrible habits that creep into our thinking. First, we forget the present. Most situations are never without hope. It is very unlikely that any situation you face is completely void of redemption or some good rising from the ashes. The second terrible habit is forgetting the past. When we review the past we can remember God’s faithfulness. He is faithful on the darkest day. As we look to the past we see the many gifts of God. Sometimes they are the people that come along at the right time with the right word of encouragement. Sometimes we are so low we fail to value or recognize the hope they bring, but nonetheless the message is delivered. Perhaps it was the perfect verse for your situation from the Bible. God is faithful and provides for those that love Him.
The phrase “do not be afraid” is used hundreds of times in the Bible. But, we are afraid. Adam and Eve were afraid of God after they sinned so they hid from Him. And we’ve been playing hide and seek ever since. Through the Gospel, Jesus calls us to turn from our fears and find strength in Him.
Jesus says in Matthew 11:28, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” He says in John 16:33, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” In John 14:27 He says, “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.”
Today, do not be afraid. Instead, turn to Christ.
He is faithful. He is merciful. He is forgiving. He is rest.
Confess your fear. Confess your doubt. Confess your sin. Confess your need.
Trust your weary soul in the hands of the Lord of peace.
Brandon Porter
PublisherBiblical Thinking
Loading controls...
