When I Hold You: A 7-Day Devotional for MomsSýnishorn

DAY 1: Do Not Fear

Contributor: Annaclaire Tadlock, mom of one

As a mom, it’s easy to hold on to so many fears and anxieties. The saying “having a baby is like having your heart live outside your body” couldn’t be more accurate. The love and natural protection you feel for this little one can be overwhelming, and if you’re anything like me, the world became a whole lot scarier the day your baby was placed in your arms. 

Thankfully, we serve a God who tells us not to be afraid. In Isaiah 41:13, He commands us not to fear and then promises to hold our hand and help us. Don’t you love that about God? He doesn’t just say, “Hey, you; don’t be afraid!” He follows it up with a promise to hold your right hand and to help you. 

Did you know that God tells us not to be afraid 366 times throughout the Bible? That’s one for each day, even including leap years! It’s like God knew we’d need that reminder once a day. Here are a few of these verses:

Do not fear for I am with you. Isaiah 41:10

Do not be afraid—Peace is what I leave with you. John 14:27

Fear not, for I have redeemed you.  Isaiah 43:1

Do not be terrified—for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:6-7

Don’t be afraid! God is coming to your rescue. Isaiah 35:4

Do not be afraid—for the Lord Your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6

Do not be afraid of them; the Lord your God will fight for you. Deuteronomy 3:22

I am thankful for the peace that the Word brings my anxious heart. God so graciously gave reason after reason why we don’t have to be afraid. Go back and read the bold words to yourself and become familiar with the reasons why you don’t have to hold on to all the worries and anxieties. He has redeemed you, He will fight for you, and He will never leave you. Why?, because He cares for you. 

God loves you, and He doesn’t want you to carry the burden of fear. I pray that truth helps you lay your fears and anxieties down. Give them to Him; He is right here, ready to help you.