Fear and Anxiety - Pt. 3

 

But now thus says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.” (Isaiah 43:1-3a ESV).

 

Fear comes in all shapes and sizes. Some people are afraid of snakes or spiders. Others may have a fear of heights, enclosed spaces, or public speaking. Many fear failure, change, dying, or being alone. Still others live each day in very real fear of persecution, oppression, discrimination, and physical harm.

 

This world can be a scary place, and fear is something we all must face.

 

The Bible tells us, “Do not be afraid!” Again and again we read of God’s coming to his people with such comforting and empowering words as “Do not fear. I am with you. I am your God and will never forsake you. You are mine.” In the story of Jesus’ resurrection, both the angel at the tomb and Jesus on the road began their conversation with the women by saying, “Do not be afraid…”

 

The women’s encounter that early morning after the crucifixion was filled with the supernatural. It had to be overwhelming, and their fear was real. But the power of the resurrection assures us that the Lord cares for his people and is with them in whatever times may come.

 

Because Jesus rose again and is with us always through his Holy Spirit (cf. Matthew 28:18-20), we can have freedom from fear because we are never alone. In God’s presence and strength we can face whatever comes. This trust that He holds our future secure is the foundational truth that empowers us to overcome our fear of the future. However, scary the world may appear, it is nothing compared to the promise and power of our Heavenly Father. He has declared with finality that we are His!