Do Not Fear

In recent days, we have seen some troublesome things around the world that may tempt us to be a little nervous. For you, it may be some things closer to home, that feel out of your control, which are causing you anxious moments. If so, then I understand. Frankly, this could happen to any of us, and does happen to most of us. However, I have good news for all of us: God does indeed hear the prayers of His nervous children!

In fact, many of the great prayers of scripture come from the hearts of nervous, anxious saints. Psalm 27 is an example. David reveals a troubled heart and a stout faith all at the same time. He begins, “The LORD is my light and salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1-2). Then he ends by encouraging his own troubled heart to have confidence in God with these words: “Wait on the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD” (Psalm 27:14).

Sometimes we find ourselves in threatening circumstances for which we too must remind ourselves of God’s faithfulness. As the people of Israel were about to set foot in the Promised Land where they would face new adversaries and frightening experiences, Joshua urged the people of God: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). No doubt, these words gave them comfort and helped them persevere as they faced the greatest challenge of their lives.

We must exercise this faith as well—which may not always come naturally. Indeed, it may be easier to trust the Lord when the sun is shining than when the storm is raging. Yet we will never really know the depth of our faith until it is tested by a powerful storm. Only then will we be fully certain how awesome is our God and worthy of our trust. But then we will join with the psalmist and say— “I am still confident of this (despite everything): I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living” (Psalm 27:13).

So whatever challenging circumstance you find yourself in today, remind yourself: Do not fear; instead, trust the Lord and draw near.

Devotedly yours,
Pastor Ron