Sucker Punch – Overcoming Fear - Thursday
Today’s Verse
Deuteronomy 31:6
So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you. (NLT)
There’s a role that appropriate fear can play in our lives. But, as is the case with anything that can serve a good purpose, Satan distorts the good and creates disorder. While some might suggest we simply put fear out of our minds, this isn’t always practicable or doable. Try as we might, the fear is still there.
Preacher Bob Russell suggests some other approaches. One is to faithfully face the fear. When Esther was asked to represent the Hebrew people before the king, she knew things may not end well. She said, I will go in to see the king. "If I must die, I must die.” Esther confronted her fears trusting the outcome to God.
Another approach to fear is found in Paul's letter to the Philippians. “Thank him for all he has done.” (Philippians 4:6) It’s amazing how gratitude can counter fear. When I list all the things for which I’m grateful, I’m reminded that these things are real and true, unlike so many of the fears I believe I’m facing!
Finally, if we allow it, fear can reveal to us what we really believe. As much as we think our faith is strong, fear will test it. How much we’re at peace and resting might be an indicator of whether or not we truly believe today’s verse. Do I believe God is behind me, with me, and ahead of me? Can I trust that he really won’t fail me or abandon me?
REFLECTION
Courage is not the absence of fear but draws from a different place in the midst of fear. Our Father is not fearful or anxious. He wants His children to reflect Him. Start with making a list of things for which you are thankful. This will put fear in its place.
