The times we live in are uncertain, and can be unsettling. And oftentimes, fear tends to rear its ugly head.
The reality is—there’s a lot to be concerned about in life.
In the world.
In our nation.
And in our own lives…from personal issues and family concerns, to health and finances—there are many things that stress us out and keep us up at night.
The question is this: How will we handle all that comes at us each day?
Will we succumb to FEAR?
OR
choose to walk by FAITH?
The truth is—we’re all afraid at times—we’re human. But God has given us ways to overcome fear.
As those who follow Christ, we have ways to fight against fear—and come back to peace, like:
prayer,
fasting,
praise and worship,
the hope found in God’s Word, the Bible.
That’s why it’s so important to know God’s Word, so we can live out God’s Word and find the “peace that passes understanding” no matter what.
We combat fear with faith. And God’s unchanging truth.
But it’s not always easy. Let’s look at how some of our “Heros of the Faith” handled fearful situations:
Moses, when he was chased by Pharaoh’s army said this, as recorded in Exodus 14:13-14: “Moses answered the people, ‘Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.’”
Joshua, who succeeded Moses, was a new leader when he was about to bring the Israelites into the Promised Land. In Joshua 1:9, we read what the LORD Himself said to Joshua: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Joseph before he married Mary, the mother of Jesus, heard from an angel, as we read in Matthew 1:2 “ But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.”
Most people would be afraid if an angel appeared to them or they heard the audible voice of God—and rightly so. But it’s what these ordinary people did after a fearful encounter that made a difference.
Despite their fear, each of them pressed on believing God and moving forward by faith.
The same is true for you and me; we can decide what we will do with the fear we feel.
So, how do you put aside fear?
• By remembering what God has done in the past—for you and for others. Recall how He has seen you through before, and believe that He will again.
• Fear says, “I cannot handle this situation.” Faith says, “God can.” Even though you can’t see how it’s all going to work out, God does!
• Shore up the truth about who God is as protector, helper, and healer. He is stronger than any force that tries to come against you.
• Listen to the Lord as He asks, “Will you trust Me to take care of all your needs and calm your fears? “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7)
When the world seems like it’s falling apart,
And when you simply don’t know what to do,
the Lord is your steady anchor—your security, your strength.
Let your FAITH be greater than your FEAR.
God is with you. He is for you.
And He will give you the POWER, COURAGE, and STRENGTH to face what comes your way.
Fear not, the Lord is near. In hard times, and in all times,
Jesus is your peace.
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