March 17

Fear to Fear

Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you,” declares the LORD. — Jer 1:8 BSB

Whenever fear enters our hearts and makes us hesitate, we are at risk of falling into sin. Conceit is dangerous, but so is cowardice. “Dare to be a Daniel.” Our great Captain deserves to be served by brave soldiers.

What a powerful reason for courage is given here! God is with those who are with Him. God will never abandon us when the time of struggle comes. Do they threaten you? Who are you to be afraid of a mere human who will die? Will you lose your job? Your God, whom you serve, will provide bread and water for His servants. Can you not trust Him? Do they mock you? Will this break your bones or your spirit? Endure it for Christ’s sake, and even rejoice in it.

God is with the righteous, the just, the holy, to deliver them; and He will deliver you. Remember how Daniel came out of the lions’ den and how the three young men came out of the fiery furnace. Your situation is not as desperate as theirs was; but even if it were, the Lord would bring you through it and make you more than a conqueror. Fear to fear. Be afraid of being afraid. Your worst enemy is within your own heart. Get on your knees and cry out for help, then rise up and say, “I will trust and not be afraid.”