“Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27) “Fear not for I am with you, be not dismayed, for I am your God.” (Isaiah 41:10) “Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” (Joshua 1:9)

           The message throughout the Bible tells us not to be afraid.  It tells us God’s presence replaces fear.  Faith is trust during uncertainty and by our faith we are not to be afraid.  Courage comes from relying upon God rather than circumstance and when we rely upon God, we trust God and our fear diminishes.

           In both the Old and the New Testaments, the command “do not fear” is one of the most repeated themes in Scripture.  So why do we fear?  Fear comes from when you do not feel prepared.  When your sense of safety is being threatened or compromised.  When you feel unloved in a relationship.  Fear enters its ugly head when you have low self-esteem.  When you have been conditioned to avoid,rather than face issues.  Fear also emerges when you focus on what you wished you would have done—our regrets.  

           Learning not to be afraid involves retraining the brain.  Your mind cannot focus on two things so when you are consumed with fear turn to God.  Pray, read the Bible, sing praise unto the Lord, listen to Christian music, say the Lord’s Prayer over and over again until the fear subsides.  Because God helps overcome fear by offering peace, strength, and His presence.  God encourages us not to be dismayed because He is with us.  For fear is replaced by trusting in God’s power and His strength. It is through God that we will find peace—that peace which passes all understanding.  It is something to remember.  God Bless.  Amen.

denise