Facing fear with courage
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9 ESV
Throughout the course of our lives, we will encounter events or circumstances that will shake the foundations of our faith. On those days, when it feels like everything is falling apart around us, the temptation to be paralysed by fear and anxiety can be overwhelming. Our bodies might send us into panic mode, sounding alarms that make us run.
You see, whilst the temptation to embrace fear may be at its highest at such times, the Lord invites us to embrace faith over fear. By choosing to trust in The Lord and remain anchored in an unshakeable faith we can stand firm and courageous in the face of difficulties and uncertainties that come our way.
Choose Faith Over Fear
The story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the book of Daniel reminds us to stay strong in our faith, no matter what. When they were thrown into the fiery furnace, the Lord was with them — the “fourth man” in the fire. His name is that strong tower that we run into and are saved (Proverbs 18:10). We can trust in Him to carry us through whatever seems too painful or too difficult to navigate in the frailty of our humanity.
“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33 ESV
Be encouraged, though trials, tribulations or hardship are unavoidable on this side of eternity we must seize such circumstances as an opportunity to exercise the strength of your genuine faith in the Lord. (1 Peter 1:6-8).
So, the next time you feel worried or afraid, think of Paul’s words to the church in Philippi: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6 ESV).
Be bold enough to let go of fear and let your faith rise. As you do, just like the birds of the air, watch yourself rise above the difficulties. And remember, one day, all these worries will end; we will see better days in glory.
