Jesus had some weird messages.
One of Jesus’ boldest statements and commands can be captured in two words: ‘fear not’. His words almost sound like a cruel joke. Fear not? That’s like telling someone who is sinking not to drown.
One look at today’s headlines tells me there are many things to fear, such as wars, epidemics, terrorism, foreclosures, and cancer, just to name a few. Only a heart of stone would be untouched and unshaken by such scares. So, was Jesus mistaken or did He take things too lightly?
I don’t think so, His messages were sometimes weird, but always serious; don’t fear the things of the world, fear God! Put all of your energy there!
David prayed sincerely,
Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name.
(Psalm 86:11)
Let that be our prayer today!
Fear not. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom which is Jesus. Great post. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteThat's a lot of truth in a nut shell Sonia! Awesome, thanks!
ReplyDeleteThanks for following, I'll check out your website :)
Fear was a constant companion all my life, even as a Christian. But I've learned the FEAR is a four-letter word! Like a curse word, fear began with the curse in the garden. It wasn't part of God's plan.
ReplyDeleteI also learned that it can be a useful tool in God's toolbox. It keeps me dependent on Him as it drives me to my knees, rather than relying on my own strength.
We can "fear not" when we trust the One who is in control.
Thanks Marja! Brilliant as always!
Blessings,
Susan
Hi Marja - I think this is why God wants us to trust Him like little children. They don't question, they just ... trust
ReplyDeleteHave an awesome weekend
God bless
Tracy
Of all the commands in the Bible, this is the one mentioned most frequently and the one I struggle with the most. As you said, it is so difficult to not fear when it seems as if the world around us if falling apart. But no matter what's going on in the world, God remains faithful. We need to take the focus off of our fears and place it on God's promises. I've found that to be an effective way of dealing with my fear and doubt. Thanks for the great post!
ReplyDeleteHi Susan, thanks for adding your personal experience to this post. We would be lying if we said we have no fear, but overcoming fear is the goal. And you are living proof it works!
ReplyDeleteTracy, replacing fear with trust... great exercise, thanks!
ReplyDeleteHi Dana, shifting our focus... that is indeed a key word too in the battle against fear. Thanks for your input, as always.