Fear is mentioned many times in the Bible. The phrase, “Do not be afraid” was spoken, when God’s angels announced the birth of the Savior to shepherds. The Psalms are loaded with references to fear in King David’s prayers. The epistles are also full of encouraging words about not being afraid.

Each day we face one kind of fear or another. We might fear growing older – we could fear taking a test we aren’t prepared for – we might be fearful of a medical diagnosis – we may be anxious about not doing well at a job interview. Our fears are real and God knows that. That’s why He continues to speak the words, “Do not be afraid,” throughout scriptures.

This human emotion is one that faces every human being at one point or another. When people are afraid, they sometimes turn inward and don’t want the help of others. There are times when fears or phobias become so overwhelming they affect the way we live our lives. Our anxious moments can limit us – destroy our inner strength – paralyze us at times.

Over the past century, their have been studies on how to deal with these maladies through psychotherapy or medication, but the real prescription is in God’s Word. When He tells us not to be afraid, He is encouraging us to depend on Him in times of trouble. He’s reaching out His strong hands to lift us up out of the pit of despair.

We are so loved by Him that we can believe He is going to keep His word. He will never leave us – He will lift us up – He will give us the strength to carry on – He has provided an answer for our sinful condition. Praise be to Him for being our rock and fortress. We never have to be afraid of anything again! REALLY! So forget about it.