Tag: no fear
Day 2–No Fear!
Scripture reading for June 9: 2 Timothy 1:6-7 “For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the Gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” Romans 8:15-17 “For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by Whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, . . “
Fear is a spiritual force that comes to torment us with doubt and unbelief. An acronym that I have borrowed from others is ‘False Expectations Appearing Real’ and our enemy Satan likes to draw our minds away from trusting in God and His Word. Satan uses thoughts and our senses to steal our peace, make us react in haste, and lose self control. He paralyses us with tormenting fears of failure, punishment and rejection by man and God.
Tormenting fear is not from God. The Holy Spirit produces in us the qualities of God which are power, love, and a sound mind. The apostle John stated that God’s perfect love has cast out all fear. He stated that fear has torment because of fear of punishment for sin and Christ Jesus lovingly gave His body and blood to pay for our sins. (1 John 4:18) Since we have His Spirit in us, we can fan into flames the Gift of God which is given to us by the Father to empower us for His service. The Holy Spirit is a Spirit of adoption that affirms our true identity as sons and daughters of God. This identity brings freedom from guilt and fear of rejection.
First responders, especially, need regular reminders of their identity and worth. Those in law enforcement regularly face attacks on their identity and even attacks on their lives. Those in the fire and medical service also face derision from hurting people under influences of drugs, alcohol, anger or fear. The Holy Spirit in us affirms us and gives us a sound mind to work from.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for affirming us regularly as Your children and helping us to rest in all that Jesus Christ has done and is doing for us daily. Help me to live in the Spirit of power and love and a sound mind today as I serve You and others. Amen.
Day 3–Jesus’ Gift of Peace
Scripture reading for March 11: John 14:25-27 “These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, Whom the Father will send in My Name, He will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
John 16:33 “I have said these things to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.””
First responders must be prepared to enter into the trouble and chaos of others involved in accidents, crime, sickness or disease. On top of that, each person has troubles of their own to deal with. In these Scriptures we uncover a Source of peace that helps us overcome each incident. God has made several key provisions for those who trust in Him and His Son, Jesus Christ. He desires that all men and women enter into the perfect peace He offers. That peace comes when we receive and believe His Word. Faith comes into our hearts through this process. Jesus Christ came as the ‘Word made flesh’ (John 1:14) and He spoke His Word to those willingly following Him. “So faith comes by hearing and hearing through the Word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17)
But after Jesus gave His body and blood to cover and cleanse us from guilt and sin, Jesus rose again and told His disciples to wait for the Promise of the Father, the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit would live in each believer and personally teach each person the Word of God and help them to apply it through faith. The Holy Spirit would bring the fruit of peace. (Galatians 5:22) He would actually bring Christ Jesus’ own peace that gives comfort to us in the midst of the world’s troubles. It enables us to overcome those troubles and fears and walk in confidence. It is a gift from our Father and Lord to be received daily as we walk with Him.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for Your amazing provision of peace given through the Words of Your Son Jesus Christ. Even more amazing is the Gift of Your Holy Spirit living in me to teach me God’s Word and manifest the fruit of peace through me to a world in trouble. Amen.
Day 4–Called to Strength and Courage!
Scripture reading for January 29: Joshua 1:1-3, 8 “After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua the son of nun, Moses’ assistant, “Moses My servant is dead. Now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people, into the land that I am giving to them, to the people of Israel. Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given to you, just as I promised Moses.” . . .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.””
The Lord’s call and instructions to Joshua is a great word for all faith responders! We are called by God to arise and go into whatever situation or trouble we are facing. The Jordan River was the boundary of the land promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob that belonged to them. Joshua, Moses’ assistant had walked for forty years with them through the wilderness as a consequence of the unbelief of the older generation of Israelites. As Moses lead God’s people out of Egypt through the miracle of the parting of the Red Sea, so Joshua was to face the flooding Jordan river as the first obstacle to lead God’s people through to inherit their land.
It is interesting to note that God promised Joshua that every place that the sole of his foot would tread, God would give to him. Joshua must do the walking out of God’s commands in trusting faith, no matter what the obstacle or enemy facing him. God promised His presence as they walked. In that presence of the Lord God was their strength, courage, and deliverance! How easy it would be to become frightened or deeply insecure when impossible situations confronted them. God knew their tendencies and with His Word and Presence would give them grace to overcome and possess their inheritance!
This is exactly what God calls us to do as first responders. As we walk into danger or trouble, we rely on God’s Word and presence with us through the Helper, the Holy Spirit. We choose to trust and obey and reject fear and dismay.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for Your Word that brings faith and courage to face life’s trouble. Fill me with the Holy Spirit and guide me to respond as You to those who are in need. Amen.
Advancing the Gospel!
Scripture reading for September 2: Philippians 1
“I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the Gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ. And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the Word without fear. Some indeed, preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the Gospel. The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment. What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice.” Philippians 1:12-18
Paul found himself in prison in Rome and was writing to the church at Philippi that he had founded. The church was concerned for him and supported him with generous offerings. Paul explained to them that his imprisonment was all part of God’s masterplan to advance the Gospel. While in prison, Paul had opportunity to share the Good News with the imperial guard that was keeping him. His imprisonment and good attitude while there had taught by example the brothers to continue to preach boldly and not fear what might happen. Paul viewed his imprisonment as God placing him where there was a need to advance the Good News and cheerfully accepted his assignment.
While imprisoned, word came of others preaching the Gospel with selfish motives. They considered themselves as rivals of Paul and his missions company. Paul’s imprisonment was a chance for them to accuse him of being out of God’s will and a criminal and gain an advantage in followers. But Paul’s attitude was not to speak evil against them, but to rejoice that the Gospel was being proclaimed and producing fruit for eternal life. His attitude was one of rest in Christ Jesus and the victory of the cross!
As a believer, have you ever complained about circumstances that resulted in suffering or inconvenience? How does Paul’s world view expand your understanding of God’s plan and purpose? Is the advancement of the Gospel a priority in your life?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for opening up my world view to see a bigger picture when things don’t go as I planned. Help me to keep a good attitude that inspires faith and courage in others when I go through trials. Use everything in my life experience to further the advance of the Gospel. Amen.
Seeing life with faith
Scripture reading for March 13: Luke 8
“While He was still speaking, someone from the ruler’s house came and said, “Your daughter is dead; do not trouble the Teacher any more.” But Jesus on hearing this answered him, “Do not fear; only believe, and she will be well.” And when He came to the house, He allowed no one to enter with Him, except Peter and John and James, and the father and mother of the child. And all were weeping and mourning for her, but He said, “Do not weep, for she is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at Him, knowing she was dead. But taking her by the hand, He called, saying, “Child, arise.” And her spirit returned, and she got up at once.” Luke 8:49-55
Jesus Christ was constantly at work, doing His Father’s will. He saw the world He lived in from God’s perspective and asked the Father for His will. He was constantly calling His disciples to see each person and situation through eyes of faith. In this recorded incident, Jesus was approached by a ruler in the synagogue for help with his only daughter who was dying. Jesus immediately agreed to go to his home. He was interrupted on the way by a woman who reached out to touch His garment, believing that if she could just touch His garment, she would be healed of an embarrassing illness. Jesus took time to call her out and declare that her faith had healed her body! But then the news of the daughter’s death reached the father, Jairus, and Jesus. Jesus called Jairus to give up fear and believe, promising healing.
Upon arrival, there was a crowd of mourners. Jesus told them not to weep because she was only sleeping. They ‘knew’ she was dead, and laughed at Jesus! Jesus saw her awakening, the crowd saw no life. Jesus took only Peter, James, and John and the parents to where the child lay. He simply spoke with authority, “Child, arise.” All were amazed as the child got up! In the world view of faith, all things are possible to those who believe!
Have you ever thought you knew something to be true, only to find out it wasn’t as you believed? In this story, who would you most identify with: Jairus or the crowd of mourners? Why do you think Jesus limited those who would witness this miracle?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for Your amazing patience and call to us to have faith in You and Your Word. Forgive me for seeing things only in the natural wisdom and world view. Invite me to join You as You minister to those in impossible situations and increase my faith! Amen.
Don’t be afraid of suffering!
Scripture reading for December 2nd: Esther 4-6, Revelation 2
Key Scriptures: Revelation 2:8-10 “”And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: ‘The Word of the First and the Last, Who died and came to life. “‘I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich) and the slander of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.”
John was given dictation by the risen Jesus Christ to write down for the seven churches. Jesus identified Himself as the One Who died and came to life. He gave a Word of knowledge to this body of believers. Jesus wanted them to know that He knew about their tribulation and the poverty that also had beset them. He reminded them they were really rich! He also knew about the slander of the false teachers who claimed to be Jews but were really tools of Satan. Jesus told them not to be fearful about the coming trial of suffering and persecution. Satan was behind it but God would reward the faithful with a crown of life eternal!
Faith confession and prayer: Lord Jesus, I am thankful You are alive from the dead and know all things. At Your Word, I will not be fearful about future suffering or even of death. I look forward to the crown of life eternal!
Esther 4:16 “”Go, gather all the Jews to be found in Susa, and hold a fast on my behalf, and do not eat or drink for three days, night of day. I and my young women will also fast as you do. Then I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish.””
Jesus is my Advocate!
Scripture reading for January 14th: Matthew 10, Psalm 10, Prov. 10
Key Scriptures: Matthew 10:29-32 “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. So everyone who acknowledges Me before men, I also will acknowledge before My Father who is in heaven, but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before My Father who is in heaven.”
Jesus prepared to send his disciples out two by two to share the gospel and heal. Jesus prepared His disciples for the persecution and opposition that they would experience. Knowing that they would be tempted to doubt their worth and even deny Him, He encouraged them of their great worth before God and the reward of staying true to their Master. Their confession before men must ring out!
Faith’s Confession: I will acknowledge and confess my faith in Jesus Christ before men without fear and rest in my Father’s great love and care, trusting Jesus to confess me before the Father as my Advocate.
Psalm 10:17-18 “O Lord, You hear the desire of the afflicted; You will strengthen their heart; You will incline Your ear to do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed, so that man who is of the earth, may strike terror no more.”
Standing firm with confidence!
Scripture reading for August 31st: Psalm 140-142 and Philippians 1
Key Scriptures: Philippians 1:27-30 “Only let your manner of life be worthy of the Gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the Gospel, and not frightened in anything by your opponents. This is a clear sign to them of their destruction, but of your salvation, and that from God. For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in Him but also suffer for His sake, engaged in the same conflict that you saw I had and now hear that I still have.”
Paul was in prison and not sure whether he would live or die for the Gospel. He wrote to the church at Philippi to encourage them to stand firm in their faith and not be afraid. Faith in Christ often involves suffering for His sake. There is a spiritual conflict that comes with belonging to Him, but we can have great confidence in our final outcome.
Psalm 140:12-13 “I know that the Lord will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and will execute justice for the needy. Surely the righteous shall give thanks to Your Name; the upright shall dwell in Your Presence.”
Prayer: Lord, empower me today to stand firm in the conflict and suffering that comes to those who believe. Thank You for the encouragement of Your Word and past apostles and saints. Amen.
Strength and Courage!
Scripture reading for March 15th: Joshua 1-4, Luke 10
Key Scriptures: Luke 10: 1-3 “After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them on ahead of Him, two by two, into every town and place where He Himself was about to go. And He said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest. Go your way; behold, I am sending you out as lambs in the midst of wolves.”
Jesus gathered the larger group of His disciples and sent them out two by two. He prefaced His mission with a command for them to pray to “The Lord of the Harvest” for laborers. After they prayed, He commanded them to answer their prayer by going! Prayer has a way of motivating the prayer and opening them to Hear Jesus and obey.
Joshua 1:8-9 “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make you way prosperous, and then you will have good success. 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.”
Prayer: Lord, thank You for your encouragement and strength. Help me to go forth today to walk with You and possess the land of promise. Amen.
Jesus: Worthy of Worship!
Scripture reading for October 30th: Hebrews 13
In this letter, the writer of Hebrews has done all he can to call the Hebrew Christians to continue confidently in their pursuit of Christ! The final words are very practical in light of the Great Shepherd of our souls who alone is worthy of our worship!
“Keep on loving each other as brothers. Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it. Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering. Marriage should be honored by all and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral. Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”” (Hebrews 13:1-5) Jesus is always with us and promised to be with us always! (Matthew 28:20) In light of this, we must live a life of worship by obeying His commands and example. Jesus loved the world enough to die for them, even though all men were sinners. Jesus identified with the poor, needy and suffering, having compassion on them. Jesus forgave sin but called all to repentance. Without repentance, there is no forgiveness and God will judge sin. Money and possessions will not save us in the Day of Christ’s return!
“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise–the fruit of lips that confess His Name. And do not forget to do good and share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” (Hebrews 13:15-16) Living a life of worship and good deeds keeps us ready for the Great Shepherd when He comes again!