Have No Fear, God is Here

Our congregation has been facing a lot of challenges lately. From injuries to illnesses and losing loved ones, we’ve been feeling, what feels like, tough times. But as we know, these things happen in waves. Just like life itself, somedays, weeks and even months, are better than others.

Because we are human, we tend to look to put a negative spin on these moments. We start to fear or have anxiety about what is or could happen next. This is not the way God wants us to live. 

Have you ever wondered what was going through Moses or Joshua’s minds when bad things were happening? Or when the Israelites were anything but faithful to God. They were continually going to bat for the nation, either by encouraging them to be obedient or pleading to God not to destroy them.

When God transferred responsibility over to Joshua, he reminds him not worry. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9

It’s so easy for us to forget that God is with us. When we face times of sorrow or strife, times of anxiety and pain or time of uncertainty, we often feel we are facing them alone. We may look around us and see no one sanding by our side. 

But God is by our side. Not only by our side, but in front of us. Leading, protecting, guiding us along. When the Israelites left Egypt, God didn’t say, “see you guys when you get to the promise land.” No, he was there, guiding them in the day and night. Guarding them as they made the trip. Even when they were disobedient, God was still leading the way.

While we forget that He is there, we also forget what God is capable of doing. As if creating all things wasn’t enough, does God really need to do something else to prove He can do anything? Paul was pretty clear, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13

If there was anyone who knew and understood the capabilities of God, it was Paul. Who went from persecutor to persecuted and never let up. He fought for the cause of Christ with more passion and zeal than his fight to destroy it. He saw how God saved him and protected him throughout his ministry. Especially in those moments when all hope seemed lost.

So have no fear, God is with you through every moment of your life. Lean not on your own understanding, but lean on Him who is faithful and true.

See you Sunday!

Pastor Glen