Daily Devotion, 2/20/21, Do Not fear

I am the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear (Isaiah 41:13).

While we do not feel or experience God grasping our right hand, the metaphor is clear. God has a grasp on His people, on those who believe in Him and trust Him. He is with us to keep us from being overwhelmed by fear. Israel had much to fear. They were surrounded by enemies and often under attack. We are in the same boat. We live in a world where there is much to fear, and fear can grip our hearts. When that happens, faith is stifled. Faith and fear are opposites and cannot coexist in our hearts and minds.

Today many fear COVID-19. There are things going on in the political realm that can stir up fear. Personal problems which seem to have no solution cause some to become immobilized with fear. God wants us to remember that He is in control, and when that fact grips our souls fear disappears. Paul reminded Timothy that “God has not given us a spirit of fear…” (2 Timothy 1:7). Fear is not from God. God does not want us to live in fear. Scripture says to us, “Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You” (Psalm 65:3). When fear pops up it is time to pray and turn to God in faith. The more we live by faith the less we will be overcome by fear.

Father, thank You for telling me I need not be ruled by fear. Remind me to turn to You in faith when I am afraid. Keep me close to Your side and to Your beloved Son and I will not be afraid. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.