Only God is God - Fearless, Day 27

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But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God?  Genesis 50:19

Am I in the place of God?

Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery, and now, many years later, God had elevated him to the 2nd most powerful position in Egypt. After the death of their father, Jacob, the brother’s fear of retaliation was understandable. (If you don’t know Joseph’s story, it’s a great read, found in the last 14 chapters of Genesis!)

But Joseph’s question reveals the secret of his own, amazing response to cruel and unfair circumstances. He never forgot that slave traders, slave owners, and even Kings are not God.

Only God is God!

Imagine their surprise when his brothers heard Joseph say, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” (Gen. 50:20-21)

He had been in God’s hands the whole time. And he reminded them that they were now in God’s hands, not his.

You’re in God’s hands. Don’t be afraid.

For Reflection: When you think about the future of your family, your career, or even our country, where are you tempted to be afraid? How do things like news and talk radio impact your “fear quotient”? Does remembering that God is in control change the way you feel? Why or why not?

Lord, I love You, and I trust You. It’s so easy to look at circumstances and forget that You alone are God. No company, leader, or government will determine my future or destiny. Help me to keep my eyes on You. No matter what the news says, my life is in Your hands. Help me not to fear!

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Contagious Fear - Fearless, Day 25

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Then the officers shall add, “Is any man afraid or fainthearted? Let him go home so that his brothers will not become disheartened too.” Deuteronomy 7:18

Fear is contagious. It spreads like a virus.

The scripture has reminded us repeatedly not to be afraid, but that’s sometimes easier said than done in a fear-filled culture. Even our economy is built around products whose entire sales pitch is designed to cause fear and then offer a solution to that fear. It’s like a deadly minefield of fear!

A couple of thoughts:

Be careful who you let influence you. There are those who have organized their entire lives around fear. If we’re not paying attention, we will get caught up in a perpetual “fear-fest.” Finances, politics, the state of “these kids nowadays”…you name it. There’s a lot to be afraid of! Be very careful lest their fear become yours!

Also, be aware of how you influence others. In difficult circumstances, one calm, faith-filled person can change everything! Each one of us has the power to calm or fuel fear. Leaders would do well to remember this principle! We don’t deny the reality of our circumstances, but we remind ourselves, and others, of the “unseen” reality around us. Like the prophet Elisha, God can use our faith to open the eyes of others to His presence all around us.

We don’t need any more voices of fear, but a few ambassadors of hope and faith would be a breath of fresh air!

For Reflection: Do you have a tendency to fear first and ask questions later? If so, why? Who do you know who restores your courage when you’re around them? What do you think is their secret?

Lord, help me to be a voice for faith! I want to remind others of Your goodness and power. There will always be reasons for fear, but in You there is greater reason to have courageous hope! Let our eyes be opened to Your presence all around us!