Fearless - Day 8

He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.  Psalm 112:7 

I hate bad news…and so do you. That’s why it’s called bad news. But, the person who puts their trust in the Lord has a very different response to it. Bad news looks different when seen in light of a good God. In Him, there is always hope!  That’s why the scripture says: “his heart is steadfast, trusting the Lord” It’s not a matter of denial. Bad news is still bad. But, we don’t lose heart, because we have a good and powerful God! We don’t need to be afraid.

For Reflection: What bad news do you fear most? Take a moment and put that situation in God’s hands

Lord, I thank you that I don’t have to face bad news alone. You are always with me. Because of Your presence, I don’t have to fear negative circumstances. Give me the strength to look to you and remember that you have the final word and that you are trustworthy.

Fearless - Day 7

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27

The problem with “worldly peace” is that it exists at the whim of circumstances. As long as conditions are favorable around me, I’m at peace. But that kind of peace is extremely superficial and leaves lots of room for my heart to be troubled by fear. What if my “peaceful” circumstances change…the market tanks, war breaks out, I lose a job, or a relationship ends? Jesus is offering a whole new kind of peace—the kind that thrives in good times and not so good times, because it has nothing to do with circumstances. His peace is based on His presence, which He offers freely! No matter what conditions are around me, I can be at peace because He is with me and promises to lead, protect, guide, and provide no matter what! No Fear!

For Reflection: What circumstances in your life can most tempt you to fear? How would acknowledging God’s presence in those circumstances change your outlook and responses?

Lord, help me to see with spiritual eyes. Circumstances can appear to be the only thing that is real, but I know that’s not true. You are with me, and because of Your presence, I can be at peace no matter what I am walking through.

Fearless - Day 6

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

Reading those verses, two questions immediately come to mind: Is God really that intimately acquainted with my situation, and does He really care to that degree? Jesus answers both questions with a resounding yes! He knows the intimate details of His creation and He cares deeply. Jesus wants us to know that God loves us more than we can imagine and values every aspect of our lives. In light of that understanding, His command is really very logical: Don’t be afraid!  Father knows and He cares. When you surrender your life to Him, you are in good hands!

For Reflection: Are there things in my life that I think are beyond the “concern” of God? What do my decisions say that I believe?

Lord, I thank you for going into such detail to describe how much you care for me! Forgive me for doubting. Let this understanding shape the way I trust you.  Please, give me the humility to walk in faith-filled dependence on a daily basis.