Fear Not
What do you fear? You may have ongoing fears, such as the fear of abandonment, failure, or rejection. You may have new fears that are tied to current circumstances –the fear of losing your job or a relationship. Jesus told us, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me” (John 14:1).
Read Matthew 10:24-31. Three times in this passage, Jesus says “Fear not.” While the world around us slips into panic, Jesus says not to live like them. We have no reason to allow fear to intimidate or defeat us. What reasons does Jesus give us for not fearing the people and circumstances of this world?
We ought not to fear, as truth will ultimately triumph: “So do not be afraid of them. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs” (Matthew 10:26,27).
Today we see the truth silenced for political correctness, avoiding criticism, popularity and even keeping peace. Yet those of us who have trusting fellowship with God have no reason to fear. We know that ultimately truth will triumph. In the end, wickedness will be judged and righteousness will be exalted.
We cannot allow the fear of ridicule or rejection to deter us from speaking God’s truth in love to those who need to hear it. “Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. ‘Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.’ But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:13-15).
We are to fear not because heaven is our destination: “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matthew 10:28).
We may pay a price for standing firm on the truth of the Word of God and for speaking out about God’s only plan of salvation. No matter what taunts, alienations or persecutions we face from others, they can never destroy our eternal soul. Once we commit to Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, no man can take away our eternal place in heaven.
Whatever you face—struggles with antagonistic neighbors or co-workers, a loss of employment or financial security, failing health, or a broken relationship—none will touch you in heaven. Your earthly troubles will disappear the instant you step through the gates of heaven.
Third, we are to fear not because God has everything under control: “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows” (Matthew 10:29-31).
Each of God’s children is deeply loved and cared for by the Father. We are carried on His shoulders and engraved in the palms of His hands. God cares for all of His Creation—from the tiniest sparrow to the largest whale. Yet out of all of His creations, He treasures us most of all.
Confess the fears you are struggling with to God and spend time acknowledging Him as the only One who has the power to overcome them. Thank Him that you can “fear not” because His Truth will triumph, your salvation is secure, and His love for you will never end.
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