Do Not Fear

I read the other day that fear is the opposite of faith.  That's so true.  If we're living in fear, our faith is squashed or diminished or maybe even totally gone.  "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love." 1 John 4:18

God loves us with a perfect love. He gave His perfect Son for us. There should be no fear because if we are His, then we have nothing to fear.  His love is enough. We just have to believe that truth.

This was written by Jeff Jenkins, preacher of the Lewisville, TX, church of Christ. If you're interested, Jeff and his brother have a Facebook group called, "The Jenkins Institute" with inspiring daily thoughts.

The example of Paul comes to mind when reading Jeff's message. He relied on God and did what needed to be done to further the cause of Jesus and His gospel.  He prays that his work might be done, but never for his own safety, and we know he wasn't safe and out of harm. In fact, he was harmed and in very unsafe places.

"There is so much fear in our world right now. Fear of disease, fear of war, fear of the future, and fear of death. Many people are allowing the cares and concerns of this life to paralyze them. Right now is a great time for people of God to show what it means to be a follower of Jesus. We can show the world what it means to glorify God in the face of fear. We can model what it means to cast all our cares upon Him. May God help us to share with others the peace that passes all understanding!"

Why is our own safety so important to us?  Maybe because we're so busy doing what "we" want instead of what God wants for us? Sometimes that may be the case.  Are we, like Paul, going about our Father's business, or are we too concerned about our own business?  Either way, we should have no fear.  We don't have to be afraid. We can put our faith and trust in Our Heavenly Father who can do more than we can ever imagine.  With Him in control, everything is okay....even in the face of danger.  DO NOT FEAR!

When you pass through the water I will be with you,

And the waves they will not overtake you.

Do not fear for I have redeemed you.

I have called you by name.

You are mine.

Chorus

For I am the Lord Your God.

For I am the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.

I am the Lord. (Women: Do not fear.)

I am the Lord. (Do not fear.)

I am the Lord. (Do not fear.)

I am the Lord. (Do not fear.)

I am the Lord.

When you pass through the fire I will be with you,

And the flames they will not overcome you.

Do not fear for I have redeemed you.

I have called you by name.

You are mine.