Words That Are Still For Us

Zechariah was troubled when he saw the angel, and fear gripped him. But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah.” Luke 1:12, 13a (New American Standard Bible)

It seems that every time an angel appeared to a person in Bible times, this same scenario was played out. The person was fearful and the angel spoke the same four words, “Do not be afraid.” It may not be angels appearing and sending us into a state of fear but life’s circumstances can certainly do the trick.

Fear is that uneasy, sometimes extreme, feeling that comes over us when we think we are in danger (real or imagined). There are many things that can bring this on. It may be rejection, failure, the unknown, the future, death, loss, financial ruin, sickness, disease, etc…. It seems that the things we fear the most are the things we cannot control. Difficult circumstances can leave us feeling like the passenger in a car that is traveling on icy roads or up a winding mountain trail. Because OUR hands are not on the steering wheel and OUR feet are not on the peddles, we can feel uneasy, uncomfortable, and nervous. Often, life can make us feel that way if we are not purposefully reviewing truth in our minds. While we may not have an angel standing in front of us telling us not to be afraid, we do have the Word of God whispering those very words to us.

When my heart is gripped with fear and a feeling of uneasiness has enveloped me I simply need to begin embracing my heavenly Father’s words to me. He has promised me that He will never leave me, that He is working all things out for good, that He will protect me, that He will provide me with everything I need, that He is watching over me, that I am inscribed on the palms of His hands, that He has a plan and purpose for my life, that He will give me strength, that He is always with me, that everything passes through Him before it gets to me. He is my rock, my fortress, my high tower, my protector, and my strength.

A friend sent me a quote that I just love. It is one more reminder of how I can view things that normally would make me fearful. “When we come to the edge of the light we know, and are about to step off into the darkness of the unknown, of this we can be sure ... either God will provide something solid to stand on or ... we will be taught to fly.” May today, we feel the sure footedness of being on the solid Rock or His wind beneath our wings!

Father, may my trust in and of You far outweigh my fears. May You be more real to me than the things I see, feel, and fear. Amen.

Can't Live A Day - Avalon
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YsgY5mYbMoo

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