Sep 2013
Be Not Afraid!
There are many times in our lives that we are worried or afraid or scared. We are constantly worrying or fretting about something: how we will do on a big exam, a strong storm, finances, safety, whether what we did is enough or not or even making a difference. We make ourselves sick with worry and spend valuable time and energy being afraid, scared or running away. God tells us often throughout the Bible "Be not afraid!" He is always reminding us that He is in control and all things are under His command. With a single word, Jesus calmed the wind and waves, and at other times he calmed his disciples! God will provide for all our needs if we pray and place our trust in Him. He doesn't always give us what we ask, but he will always give us what we need. When we can't hear him it doesn't mean that he doesn't hear us. He might be telling us "No" or "Not yet". He also might have something far bigger and better planned for us. "For I know the plans I have for you" declares the Lord, "Plans to prosper you not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future" -- Jeremiah 29: 11
In all things, let us pray to the Lord our God for peace, for courage, and for strength to face each day's fears and worries and to rely on him in everything. "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be discouraged, do not be terrified; for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go!" -- Joshua 1: 9
Lord, there are so many things that I worry and fret about every day. There are also many times that I am scared or afraid and run away like a coward. Please remind me every day Lord, that You are always with me with every breath and every step I take. Help me please and give me the peace, courage and strength I need to face what scares me, remembering always that you are by my side at all times. "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference!" AMEN.
There are many times in our lives that we are worried or afraid or scared. We are constantly worrying or fretting about something: how we will do on a big exam, a strong storm, finances, safety, whether what we did is enough or not or even making a difference. We make ourselves sick with worry and spend valuable time and energy being afraid, scared or running away. God tells us often throughout the Bible "Be not afraid!" He is always reminding us that He is in control and all things are under His command. With a single word, Jesus calmed the wind and waves, and at other times he calmed his disciples! God will provide for all our needs if we pray and place our trust in Him. He doesn't always give us what we ask, but he will always give us what we need. When we can't hear him it doesn't mean that he doesn't hear us. He might be telling us "No" or "Not yet". He also might have something far bigger and better planned for us. "For I know the plans I have for you" declares the Lord, "Plans to prosper you not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future" -- Jeremiah 29: 11
In all things, let us pray to the Lord our God for peace, for courage, and for strength to face each day's fears and worries and to rely on him in everything. "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be discouraged, do not be terrified; for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go!" -- Joshua 1: 9
Lord, there are so many things that I worry and fret about every day. There are also many times that I am scared or afraid and run away like a coward. Please remind me every day Lord, that You are always with me with every breath and every step I take. Help me please and give me the peace, courage and strength I need to face what scares me, remembering always that you are by my side at all times. "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference!" AMEN.
