Forty Days Without FearSample

FRIENDS EQUIP US TO FIGHT FEAR

Have you ever watched a movie with an old-school battle - a proper fight with swords and shields? The army stands together, marches together, faces their fears together, overcomes together, and enjoys the victory together. When a soldier realizes they are part of a mighty force, they grow in courage and bravery, and they are able to advance more than they would on their own.

I have seen many movies where soldiers are fearful alone, but when standing side-by-side with one another they fear less. Just like the soldiers in battle, we were not created to do life alone.
 

We were created to do life with others, so the key is not to isolate ourselves but to surround ourselves with comrades. At the time of Jesus, soldiers in the army marched in a specific formation called the turtle formation. They would hold their shields to cover themselves and overlap them to cover the side of the soldier’s shield to their right. In this way they created an impenetrable wall against the enemy.
 

A soldier fighting solo as a lone ranger weakened the whole army. Their strength was in standing side-by-side covering each other as they walked through the dark valley together.
 

This is what fellowship looks like, and it actually enables us to overcome fear. So, the question is: Who is standing with us and who are we standing with? When was the last time we shared what is currently intimidating us with someone marching alongside us? Being vulnerable and honest with the people we trust, people who have got us covered, is key to overcoming fear.

Action: Take some time to see who we can trust to share our lives with, including our fears. Who is God wanting us to support in the same way? Pray for them.