Fear Nots

by Joey Davis

It seems that recent events in our community, our nation, our world, and even our congregations seem to be in a state of constant flux. Due to unforeseen circumstances, some of our own making, some not, changes that truly affect our lives are happening with greater regularity.

And each instance seems to bring new challenges that require us to dig deeper and deeper into the measure of faith with which we have been blessed by God.

In my particular situation, it seems that every time I take three steps forward, I end up being sent four steps back. It is so easy to become discouraged when it seems that the world is spinning out of control.

If you are in this situation too, God has some words of encouragement for us. If you are not in this situation, fasten your seatbelt and save these words, because discouragement eventually finds us all . . .

. . . "I am God. . . do not be afraid." ( Genesis 46:3)

"Stay with me, do not be afraid . . . you are safe." ( 2 Samuel 22:23)

"Do not be afraid. . . remember the Lord is great and awesome." ( Nehemiah 4:14)

"Do not be afraid . . . for I am with you to deliver you." ( Jeremiah 1 :8)

"Do not be afraid, only believe." ( Mark 5:36)

"Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid." ( Mark 6:50)

"Do not be afraid, little flock, for your father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom." ( Luke 12:32)

"Do not be afraid any longer, but go on speaking and do not be silent." ( Acts 18:9)

"Do not be afraid, I am the first and the last, and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys to death and Hades." ( Revelation 1: 17) . . .

. . . In the word of God, it seems that the Master has planted little gardens of fear nots" for us to enjoy. Each garden filled with the beauty of His love for His children and saturated with the wonderful aroma of His marvelous grace.

For me, frequent return trips to those gardens are necessary to my survival as His child. I need to hear the Lord tell me that He understands that I am at times afraid, but to cast that fear on Him for He is victorious.

It's good to know, in this world that is spinning out of control, that amidst its discouragement and struggle; God is still in control; He looks to our future with positive anticipation; and from His throne, providence is sure.

• Listen to your dreams -Jan 16, 1994
• The Message of Spring -Mar 25, 1990