Scripture
Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God.—Isaiah
41:10
Reflection
Fear is a powerful emotion. A Wall Street Journal article a few
years ago reported on a survey in which men and women from all walks of
life were asked, “What is it you fear most?” The fear of death was number
three. Can you guess what one and two were? Number two was fear of
loneliness. Number one was the fear of failure.
What will happen if our plans fail? What will people think? How can I
value myself when I have failed? How could God still value me?
Some of life’s most meaningful lessons are learned through failure.
Perhaps when we fail we are humbled and learn more than we do in an easy
success.
Over and over again the words, “Do not be afraid,” appear in the
scriptures as God interacts with human beings. God’s Spirit was present
during times of fear with Mary, Jesus’ mother; the shepherds on the
hillside of Bethlehem; the disciples in a boat during a storm; the women
at the tomb; and the gathered disciples locked away in a room after the
Resurrection. Apparently, we humans are not very good at handling the
unexpected and become fearful. Perhaps we need to give our fears to God
and prepare to receive the peace of Jesus Christ.
Action
Today, when you feel fearful, stop. Take a deep breath. Let it out
slowly. Recall God’s assurance: “Do not be afraid.” Breathe in God’s
peace.
Prayer
Turn your fears over to God in prayer. Ask to experience God’s peace.
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