“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 NIV
Fear and anxiety are instruments of the enemy. He uses them to keep our focus off God. They clearly come from the enemy, as Our Lord tells us NOT to fear or worry repeatedly throughout his word.
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 NIV
He gives us his spirit, it is written, “as a deposit,” to keep us walking with him until he brings us home. This spirit has the qualities Paul writes about above in 2nd Timothy.
God doesn’t want us to struggle in life. He watches when we stress and worry over many things. He sees us remove our focus from him and asks – Why? We all know that during these times of strife, we cannot think clearly, we become frustrated, removed and focus on ourselves. This is right where the enemy wants us, away from the Lord and fighting through difficult times alone.
What example does the Psalmist set?
“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” Psalm 56:3 NIV
We forget this when life deals us a mighty blow. We can let ourselves be overwhelmed and seek our answers through all kinds of avenues, knowing full well that our Lord has not spoken yet!
Paul tells us:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 NIV
A road map to success includes conquering trials as we face them as it’s far more difficult to make good decisions when under extreme duress.
Now, listen to what Jesus leaves us with on the night he was arrested:
“Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid.” John 14:27 NIV
I tell you brothers and sisters, do not make the mistake of believing you’re strong enough to “go it alone” during difficult times. Don’t let the enemy delight during these times.
Seek HIM first, that is the message- it has never changed.
My friends do not worry and do not be afraid.
Because HE is!
Love one another always.
Barnabas
Special thanks for this submission by guest blogger Barnabas.