The Gospel of IsaiahSample

No Fear

When you lose your job, when a close friend betrays you, when your teenager runs away, when your marriage falls apart, when you hear the diagnosis “cancer,” in all of these crises and a thousand more, hear God’s Word to you: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

When you feel overwhelmed by life’s problems and are not sure you will survive, hear God’s Word to you: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

When you visit a friend in the hospital who faces surgery or a life-threatening disease, let them hear God’s Word for them: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Every line breathes life and hope and peace. “Fear not.” The fears may come but do not give way to them. Refuse to give way to fear.

“… for I am with you.” If you know God is right there with you, you can bear it. You might need to remind yourself over and over, 'He is with me.'

“… be not dismayed.” Do not be alarmed. Refuse to be shaken. Do not fret yourself.

“…for I am your God.” This is the bottom line: He is our God and He is bigger than our burden.

“… I will strengthen you, I will help you.” God’s strength is poured out upon our weakness. Feel God’s strength rise within you. He is our strength.

“… I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” This is deeply encouraging. God will not let you fall. He will uphold you. He will never let you go, never. Let these words wash over you. Hear them. Hear the voice of God.

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”