Life can be scary – with both real and perceived threats. And left to ourselves, there is good reason to fear. But God has said, “fear not.” This recurring theme tells me not only that fear is common, but also that fear is a choice.
Since fear is an emotion, on what basis should we resist it? In Isaiah, God reminds His people who He is and explains to them why they shouldn’t be afraid. Since God is unchanging, we can take encouragement from these words as well.
Don’t Fear – Positional Assurance
Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are Mine. 43:1
God has redeemed me. I am no longer a slave to my flesh but have been bought at a price to live free in Him, no longer under the penalty of sin.
God has called me by name. He knows me personally and intimately.
I am His. I have been brought into His family, He has paid the bride price in full and I belong to Him.
*Because of my position in Christ there is nothing here in this world that can ultimately harm me. My soul is secure, my future assured.
Don’t Fear – Situational Assurance
Fear not, for I am with you. 43:5
God is with me. Now, through the Spirit, God is ever present with me and all who call on Him. He dwells in and among us.
*Because of His presence, there is nothing I must face alone.
Don’t Fear – Ability Assurance
… there is none who can deliver from My hand; I work, and who can turn it back? 43:13
I am the Lord, your Holy One, the Creator of Israel, your King. 43:15
God is able to do anything in accordance with His will.
He is before all others. He is the great “I AM.”
*Because of who He is, I know He is able to accomplish beyond what I could hope or imagine.
These are needed reminders for me. And most importantly, there is nothing in this list that has anything to do with my ability. I can “fear not” because of Him alone. All I need to do is remember.
So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Hebrews 13:6
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