“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise – In God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Psalms 56:3-4 NIV

These days, watching the news is a pretty scary undertaking. In this world there is much to be afraid of:  a contagious virus that kills, violence, hatred, politicizing even the simplest of things, taking sides against groups of people, and I could go on, but won’t. Fear is out there just waiting to steal our joy, our peace, and our strength.

But we have One who is greater than all of our fears, our God and our Savior! The fears of the current climate in our country has drastically enriched my prayer life. I fear for my son and daughter-in-law living in North Carolina because covid-19 cases are rising at an alarming rate. Thank you, Jesus, for keeping them safe and well. I fear for my daughter in New York City, one of the original epicenters. Thank you, Father God, for continuing to watch over her and keep her healthy.

Fear is a part of all our lives. Fearful thoughts seem to appear in our minds uninvited. The what ifs… of this world, this life. But we have a Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, that promise us that They will be with us, love us, and care for us. They created each unique and wonderfully made human. They restore our peace, our joy, and our strength if only we will trust in the promises and turn our fears over to Them. They will bear our burdens and calm our fears.

We were never promised trouble-free lives. Actually we were assured that we would have troubles, we would have fears. But we have a God we can trust.

Some of God’s promises to defeat your fears.

Isaiah 41:10 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.

Psalms 34:4 I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.

Romans 8:31 What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

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

Mark 5:36 Overhearing what they said, Jesus told him, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”

This week, let’s take our fears and lay them at the feet of our Lord. Let’s take up His peace and joy, His strength and protection. Let’s trust His word and fear not.

I thank God for each of you! And I thank you for joining me this week as we lay down our fears and trust in the promises of God.

Blessings, prayers and peace!