Be not afraid, neither be dismayed,
for the Lord is with us wherever we go.
Joshua 1:9
The presence of God in our lives helps us overcome fear. If we know by faith that God is with us, we can take on any challenge with confidence and courage. The basis for not fearing is simply this: God is with us. We may not always feel God's presence, but we can trust God's Words and remember that He'll never leave us.
Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff they comfort me. Psalm 23:4
We have a big job to do (spreading the Word) but don't let it intimidate you – fear not.
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7
God is trustworthy – we don't have to know what He's going to do, simply knowing He's with us is more than enough.
Trust in the LORD with all your heart; and lean not on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5
Fear is a spirit that produces feelings like sweaty palms or butterflies – but to 'fear not' means to do what you need to do anyway. Do what God's called you to do – even if you're afraid. When fear attacks, just go ahead and do what God's telling you to do anyway. I think it was Joyce Meyer that said to simply – do it afraid.
Meditate on scriptures from the Word of God on peace and on God's love when you feel afraid or are facing an overwhelming situation. God's Word will strengthen you to keep pressing forward, no matter how you feel.
Fear used to come against me so strong when I had heart trouble that it would literally consume me. I told the Lord, I'm rebuking the fear, telling it to go. I know I have authority, how come it's still here paralyzing me? The Lord gave me such a simple answer, 'You're telling the fear to go, but you're NOT BELIEVING it's gone when you command it to. BELIEVE!'
Don't be afraid. I am with you. Don't tremble with fear. I am your God. I will make you strong, as I protect you with my arm and give you victories. I am the LORD your God. I am holding your hand, so don't be afraid. I am here to help you. Isaiah 41:10,13
God just loves us SO much, you know – no matter what.
Prayer: Father God, my Lord, You are just SO amazing. I humble myself before You and worship Your holy name. I pray that You bring peace to us and our situations. Help us to know who we are in You. Help us to receive the perfect love that You have for us, that casts out fear. Give us grace & confidence as you perform Your will through us. In Jesus' name, Amen.