Finding My Confidence

Do not be afraid of sudden fear nor of the onslaught of the wicked when it comes; for the LORD will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught. Proverbs 3:25, 26 (New American Standard Bible)

Fear takes hold of us when we think about a future event, perceive the outcome of that event, and react to what we believe is going to take place. We don’t fear the past because we already know what happened. We don’t fear the present because it is right in front of us. We fear the unknown. Within that context I have come to see my two greatest fears are of loss and failure. Loss of anything or anyone I hold dear. Failure to live differently than I have in the past. The fear is often accompanied by feelings of darkness, despair, despondency, and discouragement. It is like having a wet blanket wrapped tightly around my mind and soul.

The question becomes in who or what is my confidence resting? If it is in myself, another person, things not changing, or any number of things I can control or desire to control, that confidence will be shaky and unreliable at best. The people and possessions in my life come with no guarantees and I often want guarantees. I want to know that I can count on the important things and relationships not changing. There is no peace and joy in such wishing. It brings about a restlessness of thoughts and emotions. It depletes me of energy and enthusiasm. So on whom should I place my confidence, trust, and reliance? God!

Scripture is full of doing just that. Today’s verse speaks of God being my confidence and protection. Confidence comes as I see God as my Helper (Hebrews 13:6), as the Finisher of the work He has started in me (Philippians 1:6), as the Supplier of all my needs (Philippians 4:19), as the Worker-outer of all things for my good (Romans 8:28), as the One who will never leave me or forsake me (Hebrews 13:5).

On a practical level, I can be confident that God will wisely and lovingly intersect my world with people whom He will use to help me on my journey. Fear of them leaving is over-come by recognizing Who really determines the times and seasons of each relationship. I can be confident that God is willing and able to give me victory in areas of my life that have only known defeat. Fear of failure is overcome by acknowledging that my past does not define me…God does!

Father, where I walk in doubt and fear birth in me a boldness and confidence in You! Amen.

My Life Is In You, Lord - Hillsong
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0M0NALW7EM&feature=PlayList&p=B72B181C3BB024FD&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=49

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.