Faith vs FearНамуна

When we hear a sentence that starts with the words “do not…..” it almost automatically sounds like a warning, taking us back to our childhoods when our moms told us, “Do not wear your dirty shoes in the house”,“Do not hit your sister” or “Do not talk to strangers”.

Over seventy verses in the Bible contain the phrase “do not be afraid”, almost always followed by an encouragement. Here are some of my favourites:

“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

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” – John 14:27

“But now, this is what the Lord says— he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” – Isaiah 43:1-2

When God says, “Do not be afraid”, He does not mean, “You better not be” He is not reprimanding us like a strict mother. Instead, He’s offering us something better–inviting us to trade our fears for His gifts, such as:

• Peace (John 14:27)
• Redemption (Isaiah 43:1-2)
• Strength (Isaiah 41:10)
• Comfort (Psalms 23:4)
• Confidence (Psalms 27:3)
• Deliverance (Psalms 34:4)
• and much more.

Let’s thank God for His generous offer:

“Heavenly Father, thank You for giving me peace, redemption, strength, comfort, confidence and freedom in exchange for my fears. Today, I give You my fear of ______. Amen.”

Hey! You are a Chamatkar.

Cameron Mendes