Fear

January 16th – Psalm 112:7

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Psalm 112:7

One of the most dreaded phrases to hear is, “I have good news and bad news. Which do you want to hear first?” When someone says that to us our first reaction is to panic. Because even though there is good, the bad is what we focus on. However for Christians, no matter what we hear, we needn’t be fearful. And instead of being reactive, we can be proactive. How? By trusting in the Lord. Because those whose hearts remain fixed on the truth of God can never be shaken. And no darkness of fear, dread, panic, or despair can extinguish the light of God’s promise. A promise to see us through any situation, good or bad. A promise that the great I Am is in control of all things. And He will never let us face anything alone. So no matter how bad the evil tidings, our heart can still rejoice. For our confidence is found in the Lord alone. And in the Good News He brings to all.

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January 15th – 1 Peter 3:14

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1 Peter 3:14

No one is immune to the feelings of fear and anxiety. Not even the apostle Peter. Throughout the ministry of Christ, Peter was by His side helping, learning, and personally seeing the miracles our Lord performed. Even so, when confronted by an angry crowd after the arrest of Jesus, Peter denied knowing his Savior. And not once, but three times. Why? Because fear, even for a disciple, isn’t easy to overcome. Not easy, but not impossible when we work in God’s power instead of our own. It is God’s power that allows us to live differently from the world. For when we sanctify Christ in our hearts, we need ‘t be troubled. For the Lord gives us a peace that nothing and no one can take away. And by keeping our focus on God we can, like Peter, walk safely on the most troubled waters hand in hand with the Lord.

 

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January 14th – Isaiah 41:13

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Isaiah 41:13

I can remember as a child times of being afraid and looking for a trusted hand to grasp for reassurance. And the moment I wrapped my tiny fingers around the strong, protective ones of my chosen person, my fears subsiding. Young or old, we all need that hand to hold. The one that tells us, “Everything will be alright. I’ve got you. And I won’t let you go.” We have that mighty hand in God. Our loving Father and Friend, He is always there, day and night saying to us, “Don’t be afraid. No matter matter what you face, you don’t have to face it alone.” God will never leave nor forsake us. Never will He let us face our struggles alone. Instead with every step we take, He is there. And not just walking beside us, but literally offering His loving hand of help.  A hand not just to calm our fears, but to pull us out of every fear, trial, and tribulation.

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January 13th – Matthew 6:25

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Matthew 6:25

For the past two hears, humanity has been involved in the turmoil of the pandemic. And the anxiety it’s caused has taken its toll in the lives of so many people! But we cannot let it oppress us nor enslave us! For there is a solution. And in God’s Word, Jesus taught His followers, who were also dealing with oppression, the steps to follow. Yes we should stop being worried, uneasy, and distracted. You might say it is easier said than done, but when you realize WHO you are putting your trust in, than you can freely rest on Him and put ALL your confidence in your Heavenly Father!

When we are worried and anxious about the material things of life we behave like pagans. Like idol worshippers, we set our trust on our own efforts and set out hearts on our needs. But our Heavenly Father knows exactly what we need, and in the exact time He will provide. But we need to trust Him enough to let go. What is distracting you from receiving the blessings of His Provision for each aspect of your life? Blessings, Mari

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January 12th – Psalm 25:5

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Psalm 25:5

For some, anxiety is brought on by worrying about the future or how future events will unfold. For Christians, we know that our eternal future is secured because Jesus settled that on the cross long ago. He is the God of our salvation. Each moment that passes between today and our last physical breath will be a journey that shapes our preparation for Heaven and our influence on this Earth.

No two lives will be the same and there are many obstacles and deceptions that the enemy will place in our path to make us falter, stumble and lose our way. The Psalmist knew that it was foolish to try and navigate life on his own. He knew that it was best to trust in the guidance of God. God wants us to be teachable in all of the moments and events that make up our lives. He wants to help us recognize truth and avoid deception. 

God also wants us to trust His timing. That can be hard for those of us who get anxious when things seem chaotic and we want to rush in to “fix” or handle a situation on our own. So many times I have been amazed to discover that when I place something in God’s hands and relinquish the details and outcomes to Him, He  gives me peace and He shows me His mighty hand at work. Sometimes He works to change the circumstances and sometimes He works within those circumstances to change me.  Either way, I am learning as the Psalmist that it’s always best to wait for the Lord….Becky

January 12th – Psalm 25:5 Read More »

January 11th – 1 chronicles 16:34

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1 Chronicles 16:34

Did you know there is great power found in a grateful heart? It’s true, and they have research to prove it! “Scientific studies have proven gratitude increases neural modulation in the brain, in the prefrontal cortex, which regulates negative emotions. It also activates dopamine, the neurotransmitter responsible for making you feel good.” That’s scientific talk that basically states that the results of maintaining an attitude of gratitude is instant happiness that will prompt you to continue to giving thanks.

A good friend of mine once confessed that she had been hospitalized due to a nervous breakdown and what helped her most to recover was reading her Bible and writing down 12 things she was thankful for in a journal each day- a practice she still swears by and practices today!

Gratitude also curbs other symptoms of anxiety, helping us to deal with the disorder more effectively according to a study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information in the United States.

  • It can reduce Insomnia
  • Reduces stress hormones in the body
  • And can positively impact bodily functions, memory, and emotions.

 BUT more importantly, giving thanks is something that each one of us are commanded to practice on a daily basis; anxiety, or no anxiety. (Phil. 4:6-7, Col. 3:15, 1 Thes. 5:16-18, and many others)

So, How Can We Best Practice Maintaining an Attitude of Gratitude? 

(These are just a few suggestions and if you have any other proven habits, I hope you’ll share them with us as well)

1.) Keep a Journal

Write down all that is causing any anxiety, sadness, fear, etc. And then find at least 3 things to be thankful for right now. Even if it’s, ‘I’m thankful I woke up and I’m still breathing!’

2.)  Stop to Meditate

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” – Phil. 4:8

 Focus on all the good things in your life and start thanking God for each. You’ll eventually become a thankful person by nature.

3.) Share Your Gratitude with Others 

This may seem silly, but it goes a long way towards practicing gratitude.

Writing down your thoughts,  dwelling on the positives and then sharing your positive thoughts with God and others will go along way to develop an attitude of gratitude and squelch all those anxious thoughts that try to take over.

Blessings,

sue

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January 10th – James 4:8

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James 4:8

What if I told you that fear is a sin? How? Because fear stems from pride. And pride submits to no one, thinking we ourselves know best. It’s the same with fear. When we let fear dictate our actions, we’re telling God we trust more in that fear than in His promises. So how do we knock fear off the throne in our lives? In writing his letter to the Jews, James gives us the tools. Humility and faith. Humility is never an easy pill to swallow. Because admitting we are wrong, being vulnerable and submitting is hard. But when we come to God with a truly humble heart, He welcomes us with open arms, inviting us to draw near to Him. To in faith, leave our fear at the door and safely shelter in His mighty fortress. An impenetrable fortress of power, mercy, and wisdom. So draw near to Him, and lay your fears at the feet of Jesus. Give Him your sorrows, worries, tears, and anxiety. Receive His healing of your heart and mind, and walk in the Lord’s freedom!

 

 

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January 9th – Hebrews 13:6

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Hebrews 13:6

Too many times we put our confidence in the wrong things. And sadly, faith misplaced in possessions and people always leads to disappointment. In turn, disappointment leads to fear and anxiety. True peace can only be found through faith in God to meet all of our needs. And not just physical needs, but our need for security, safety, protection, and peace. I heard it said that fearless love never comes without facing fearful situations. And let’s face it, this world is filled with fearful situations. But God gives us His promise to never leave our side, no matter who or what we encounter. And when we put our faith in Him alone, we stand on the unshakable foundation of the Creator and Ruler of all things. So whatever the circumstance, or who tries to hurt us, we know we have nothing to fear. For with God as our helper, we too can confidently declare, “What will man do to me?”

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January 8th – Deuteronomy 31:6

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Deuteronomy 31:6

I love the quote by Max Lucado which says, “The presence of fear does not mean you have no faith. Fear visits everyone. But make your fear a visitor and not a resident.” Even though fear is a part of life, not all fear is bad. For instance, there is the healthy fear that helps keep us from harm. And lets not forget the fear of the Lord which is the “beginning of knowledge” (Prov. 1:7) But far too often the fear that fills us, keeps us stuck and under the thumb of the Enemy. Think of Joshua. Taking over leadership of Israel was quite a task. But Moses gave him some sage advice. “Be strong and courageous. The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” (Deut. 31:6,8) By applying these words to our own lives, we can break the grip of fear and its hold over our minds and hearts. If you are struggling, give it all to God. Open your heart to His love and your ears to His words as He says to you His precious child, “Fear not, for I am with you.” (Is. 41:10)

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January 6th – Philippians 4:19

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Philippians 4:19

It seems like whenever I turn on the news, there’s some new crisis to report. And with inflation, rising gas prices, and empty grocery shelves, no wonder people are afraid. But the apostle Paul assures us that as followers of Jesus, we have nothing to fear. For our heavenly Father always meets the needs of His children. Now let’s be clear. That isn’t a promise we’ll have everything we want, or that we’ll always be walking on easy street. But it is a promise that we’ll have everything we need, according to God’s purpose for our lives. For we serve the great Provider. And when we trust Him with all things, we have nothing to fear. For, “He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness.” (2 Cor. 9:10)

January 6th – Philippians 4:19 Read More »