Do Not Be Afraid: by Ann Broughton

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27 NIV).

What are you afraid of? Is there something that you fear that you obsess over a lot? Fear can paralyze you and cause you to be in a fight or flight mode, which can be very unhealthy. This kind of stress can lead to many health issues in your body. To be afraid of something you have no control over is senseless. But it is easy to obsess over the “what ifs” of life and become scared and depressed. I urge you if you do this, to please stop and remember that you have a Savior who promised to give you peace. As soon as you start fearing something that may or may not happen, please immediately pray for the Lord to help you stop thinking these negative thoughts, and fill you with His peace. You are in control of your thoughts, and it is up to you to stop thoughts that can harm your health.

I have participated in many Bible studies that Beth Moore has written and can attest that she is a wonderful Christian women. Even Beth said that she at one time felt flooded with fears of all kinds. She wrote down every verse in the Bible regarding being strong and courageous. Every time she felt afraid, she would start reading those verses to remind herself that God was with her and would give her the strength to overcome her fears.

I do not know what fears you battle in life, but I know that God will never fail you or forsake you. He will give you the courage and peace to face each day with calm assurance. Do not fear. God is with you. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV).

Dear Lord,

Help me to not let fear occupy my thoughts so much that I do not have peace. I know you will never leave me and that you have promised me peace. Help me to give my fears to you and trust you to take care of me no matter what happens to me in this life.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen