One of the great things I enjoy about the Christian life is the sense of security in knowing that God is sovereign, He is in charge, and that according to His providence, those of faith can live this life, in spite of difficulties and challenges, knowing that He does all things according to justice, mercy, and grace, and that we need not fear anything in this life if we are His.
The Bible uses the term “Fear Not” 365 times. Remember what the angels said at Christ’s birth? “I bring you tidings of great joy! Fear Not!
Matthew 6:25;27 says: “So I tell you, don’t worry about everyday life–whether you have enough food, drink, and clothes. Donesn’t life consist of more than food and clothing? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not.” Jesus assured us of His presence. He tells us to pray about our concerns, both for ourselves, for others, for the church, for our nation, for healing of every disease, for our anxieties and fears. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Turst in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. See His will in all you do, and He will direct your paths.” Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us that “The Lord says, ‘For I know the plans I have for you. They are plans for good and ot for disaster, to gibe you a future and a hope.'” From that we can live without fear, knowing God is in charge, not merely of Jeremiah’s life, but by implication, because we are His adopted children, that He wants us to live without fear of the future, because He wants what is best for us in all circumstances. He may not answer our every prayer the way we want the answers, but He will sustain us and prepare us for eternity where there are certainly no fears. In our worst days, in days of uncertainty, we can assert with David, chosen king of Israel, “The Lord is my lifght and my salvation–so why should I be afraid? The Lord protects me from danger–so why should I tremble? Though a mighty army surrounds me, my heart will know no fear. Even if they attack me, I remain confident.” Whatever we face, God will take our fear away and produce in us a holy confidence that all will ultimately be well, according to His plan for us. ” Fear not,” He said, “for I have overcome the world!”
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