Fear Not

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8).

You've probably heard the often-quoted statistic that we're told in the Bible not to fear 365 times -- one for each day of the year. One of the reasons God tells us not to fear so many times is that it's such a paralyzing force, and Satan often uses it. It's one of his main weapons of attack.

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you (1 Peter 5:7).

Fear and its rotten fruits, worry and anxiety, keep us from living the Christian life God wants for us. They immobilize us and prevent us from stepping out in faith. They take over our minds and steal our joy. We can't focus on God when we're occupied with such controlling thoughts.

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding (Proverbs 3:5).

I remember when I was preparing to go to the Philippines as a missionary to replace a man and his pregnant wife who were on furlow for six months. I didn't know a soul there, and I was going as a single female. The night before I left, I lay, unable to sleep for all sorts of bad what-if scenarios rolling through my mind. Satan would have loved it if I'd decided that going was too risky. However, I decided to trust God and put everything in His hands. I had a great six months.

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea. I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness (Isaiah 41:10).

Decide not to let fear into your life. Choose to turn to God instead. There is no fear in Him and His perfect love. Instead, Christ offers freedom from such burdens. Don't let Satan win but instead, be victorious in Jesus.

I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears (Psalm 34:4).

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