Fearless - Day 13

In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me? Psalm 56:4

What we fear is a reflection of what we believe. One fear that hinders many believers is the fear of people. Questions like, “How will I look?” “What will she think?” or “What will they do?” are often huge obstacles in our decision-making process. In an odd way, what you fear takes the form of a god in your life, because it becomes what you serve. That’s why the scriptures instruct us to fear God only. The fear of the Lord is supposed to be the fear to end all fears! But, if I am hindered by the fear of people or their opinions, what does that say about my view of God? In Romans 8:31, Paul asks: “If God is for us, who can be against us?” Great question! The answer is “No one!” When I truly trust in the Lord, I don’t have to be afraid of people…and that sets me free.

For Reflection: Is there any person or group that I find myself trying to impress? How would my behavior be different if I simply determined to please the Lord and not worry so much about what people thought?

Lord, I trust in You, and my desire is to serve You with my whole heart. But, I live in a world full of people and many of them seem to have their own agenda for my life. Teach me to love people but worship only You. I want to care for people without being caught up in always having to please them. Help me to keep my heart set on pleasing You!

Fearless - Day 12

Fearless - Day 12 is tomorrow. Come out to River City to hear the message entitled, "The Fear that Lost the Throne."

Fearless - Day 11

When I am afraid, I will trust in you. Psalm 56:3

It’s not a matter of “if” we’ll be afraid, but “when.” Sadly, fear is a regular challenge in a fallen world and, truth be told, every one of us has areas where fear is a temptation. The secret to becoming fearless is not denying it, but learning what to do with it. The Psalmist gives us a powerful and effective response to fear in the form of a simple prayer: ”I will trust in you!” Choosing to trust in the Lord is one of the most life-altering decisions a person can make. Fear magnifies circumstances, making them seem bigger than they are. Declaring our trust in the Lord puts the object of our fear back into its proper perspective. Even big issues lose their power to intimidate in the presence of an awesome God! He is trustworthy, so I don’t need to be afraid.

For Reflection: What is one area where you are tempted with fear? In this area, think of one tangible action that would declare your choice to trust God. Do it, and see what happens!

Lord, sometimes I feel afraid. I am bombarded daily with a thousand reasons why I should be fearful. But then I remember You. I remember Your love and faithfulness. You are eternally good and more powerful than anything that I might fear. So, instead of fear, I choose to trust you. I place my life and my circumstances in Your care. Thank you that I don’t need to be afraid!