When the boys were young, we lived out in the country with distant neighbors. My husband had to travel with his work, and we had quite a few nights there alone, just the boys and I. It is amazing when it gets dark how many noises you hear. Noises that are probably there during the day but go unnoticed. We always had dogs–something would get them stirred up and the barking would begin. Then my mind would go racing, wondering what was out there. Fear would consume me as I considered all the unknowns that could lurk in the dark. It was at this time that I was attending a women’s Bible study, and I began learning some valuable lessons about fear.
The first lesson I learned is that there is no fear in God’s perfect love. Perfect love is the love that God has for us. God’s perfect love takes away fear. Fear of the unknown is greater than fear of the known. We as believers know that we are loved by God.
“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18 NKJV).
Secondly, I learned that God is in control. Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world. When fear and anxiety overtake us, remember God has already won the battle and we are safe.
“You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world” (1John 4:4).
Lastly, I learned God is with me. Memorizing verses reminds us of God’s presence. We should be ready to use the sword of the Word when we are afraid or anxious.
“God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, Even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea” (Psalm 46:1-2).
Over time when I heard the dogs barking, I was not afraid. I felt the power and presence of the Lord and was full of peace and assurance of His love. David Jeremiah explained in The God You May Not Know, “Nothing comforts us more in our troubles than meditating on the verses in God’s Word that assure us of His nearness and presence.”
“But it is good for me to draw near to God; I have put my trust in the Lord God, That I may declare all Your works” (Psalm 73:28).
Remember what God told Joshua,
“Only be strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go. This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:5-9).
As you read this verse, remember how important it is to know God is with you but also to know that He has given us commands that are key to successful warfare against fear. Finally, remember He commands us to be strong and courageous.
Dear Holy Father, I praise you and honor you. You are God Almighty, the God of Angel Armies. You are all knowing, you are El Roi, The God Who Sees us. I am so blessed that you see me and know my every need or fear. You are everywhere present, but you also brought your presence down to us through your Son Jesus Christ. I cherish the name of our savior Emmanuel, God with us. I take comfort in all you have provided for me. Thank you for the Helper, the Holy Spirit, who lives with me and is in me. Help me to meditate on your presence. I exalt you who have promised to never leave me or forsake me.
In Jesus’ Holy Name, Amen
