Got Fear?

When I was in the fourth grade and living in Livermore, California, I walked home from school. My neighborhood was small and the route I took was safe, but I was afraid of dogs. So, I walked very quickly past homes with dogs, repeating the phrase, “I will not fear,” until I was safely in my front yard where my mom waited for me. Those four important words gave me the courage to get home safely.

We all face fearful situations. I will not fear should be one of the sweetest, strongest, four words we learn or teach our children. We’ll need those words for the rest of our lives.

Common fearful situations include:

• health test results
• loved ones who need salvation
• death
• loss of a job
• financial uncertainties
• the impact of physical storms
• emotional upheaval
• loneliness

In circumstances such as these, we’re unable to run away like I ran from the barking dogs. Instead, fear makes us feel like we’re trapped in a freezing room, and our body is numb. Fear robs us of sleep and brings tears to our eyes.

God’s Word says we needn’t be afraid. In Joshua 1:9 we read,” Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

This passage doesn’t say that everything will turn out the way we want. But it affirms that God is always with us. Deuteronomy 31:6 also reminds us, “Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, [your enemies] for the Lord your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.”

I still repeat those precious four words. Often, I repeat them until I feel safe or at peace.

Adapted from “Shining Through the Psalms,” by Deborah Presnell, 2018. Available on Amazon.