READING: Isaiah 38-41, Colossians 1:1-2:5
I’m not typically afraid of trying new things, and I can usually push through fears when the well-being of others is on the line. I would not want my personal fears to keep me from being the best pastor and professor I can be, simply because I want to influence others to follow God fully and faithfully. Moreover, I don’t want fears to keep me from getting the gospel to the ends of the earth, even if doing so might cost me my life.
That’s not to say, though, that I never let fear grab me. I generally fear letting others down. Sometimes I fear necessary confrontation with others. I occasionally still fear public speaking, no matter how many years I’ve been doing it. I’m sure I have other fears—and I recognize my fears are hardly the same kinds of fears the Israelites might have faced in Isaiah’s day—but still I must cling to these words from today’s Old Testament reading: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with my righteous right hand” (Isa 41:10).
I need not fear anything simply because God is with me. And, He’s not some impersonal God who has stepped away from His creation; rather, He’s my God, our God—personal and imminent. Indeed, He lives in us through His Spirit. He then assures us that He will give us strength we need, provide whatever assistance we need, and hold onto us in all His power. He will help us, and we need nothing else to press forward in faith and obedience.
PRAYER: “I praise You, God, for holding me in Your hand.”
DAILY ACTION STEP: If you face fears today, remember that God is with you.
TOMORROW’S READING: Isaiah 42-45, Colossians 2:6-3:17
