Do you know what the most common phrase, most repeated command in the Bible is? The answer may surprise you. Probably not what you are thinking? Answer: “Fear not” (do not be afraid) is found 365 times. Or, some, very high number, at least. Depending which Bible translation you reference; which phrase (fear/afraid), depending how you count them (from 17-300 or more), the most repeated phrase, and command in the Bible, is “fear not.”
It works for me to just say, one for every day of the year. I find courage in these few words. “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with with my victorious right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 NLT
Even when it feels like we’re the Lone Ranger trapped in a box canyon with Indians in hot pursuit; Tom Cruise surrounded by bad guys in some Mission Impossible movie scene, the Bible assures us this Truth: God is working, with us, and for us, right now. Who can be against us (Rm 8:31), for very long? God is bigger than our worst enemies and fears.
But, how are you and I to remain confident when circumstances are beyond our control? Answer: We trust the One who can do anything. He can make a Way (John 14:6). Whatever “box canyon” or “mission impossible” bad guy you/we are facing today, cling to deeper faith in God.
May I ask you, what is your greatest fear? My wife can’t stand spiders and snakes. Spell the word S-N-A-K-E and she left the building with Elvis. Just saying, we’re people. Some people fear flying and heights. Others fear water over their ankles. It is, what it is.
Research says the only natural fears we’re born with are loud noises and falling. The rest of our fears in this world are acquired through unpleasant experiences; things ourselves, or others experience. We’re not Jesus. We can develop phobias and fears early in our childhood. They often become even more exaggerated over time. Fear can cause paralysis and isolation.
Fears may become a setback for many years. The Good News, our setback can be God’s setup for an amazing renewal of faith and confidence. Join us this weekend at Journey Community Christian Church. We take another dive into the Bible and discover how to be more BOLD. sharing words of faith with others.
Even when we’ve been given a timid personality at birth, more quiet, more private, than others, it’s not impossible to become BOLD. God will equip us with His power, love, and self-discipline (2 Tim 1:7-8a). Through the Holy Spirit, in us (Acts 2;38), we become more BOLD sharing our story of Jesus with everyone.
Join us this weekend Journey Church Cynthiana, Journey Sat@6pm/Sun@10:30am. I promise, our pest control guys just sprayed the building… no spiders or snakes this weekend. Invite a seat buddy and get excited.
God is trending in the world again. Go God.
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