Do Not Fear

   “For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the spirit of sonship.” (Romans 8: 15)

Jesus spoke often about fear.  On numerous occasions He told the apostles and others to be not afraid; to fear not.  When we fear, we lack confidence in His words.  Of what should we be afraid if He is with us?  Nothing can separate us from His love and mercy.

   Fear is something we are meant to overcome in our life.  We will all experience it; the key is our response.  If we allow, Satan will use our fear to pull us from God; to make us believe that we are abandoned and unloved.  If we rebuke him and turn to God in our fear He will calm our anxieties and remind us of His presence and His love for us.  Jesus says it perfectly, “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather fear him who can destroy both body and soul.” (Matt 10: 28).  Be afraid only of the one who can steal us away from God; turn to God and Satan will flee.

   Fear is one of the strongest of our emotions.  Our fear can either strengthen our faith and dependence on the Lord or it can destroy it.  Fear can rule our life, or we can overcome our fear; the choice is ours.  With God, we can be unafraid.

   “And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”  (Matt 28: 20)