Fear!

When I am afraid, I will trust in you.

Psalm 56:3

Fear is a human emotion that all of us have experienced. Webster defines fear as an unpleasant, often strong emotion caused by anticipation or awareness of danger. Oxford defines fear as "the bad feeling that you have when you are in danger, when something bad might happen, or when a particular thing frightens you." Fear can be debilitating if some allow their fear to remain uncontrolled.

Patton said, "Every man is scared in his first battle. If he says he's not, he's a liar. The real hero is the man who fights even though he is scared." King David admitted that he was afraid, but he would trust in the Lord despite that fear. Christians, we will face fear in this lifetime. Fear of death, injury, heartbreak, sickness, and the list goes on and on. However, God does not want us to fear; we should trust Him.

These are just a few verses to meditate on when you are afraid.

• For I am Yahweh your God, who strongly takes hold of your right hand, Who says to you, "Do not fear, I will help you." (Isaiah 41:13)

•  God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change And though the mountains shake into the heart of the sea; Though its waters roar and foam, Though the mountains quake at its lofty pride. (Psalm 46:1-3)

• Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. (Psalm 23:4)

• These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)

• For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7)

Your shepherd,

Pastor Mark