Oh Dear, What Can the Matter Be?
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 (ESV)
What’s wrong with me? Why can’t I settle today? Is it a premonition? Am I doing something wrong? Oh God, please protect and rescue me from whatever is bothering me!
We have all been there and done that. We get up and can’t get a handle on the day. Confusion and grumpiness often are partners during these times. My grandmother, Emily, used to tell me, “You got up tired from the wrong side of the bed.”
Those kinds of days start the wheels of my imagination zooming down the track. If left to my own creative juices, there are car crashes, school shootings, and always the end is gloomy and miserable. However, did you know that we can start our day over any time we choose? We can cancel these frightening visions and thoughts with just two words. “Jesus, help!”
There are many verses in God’s Word that contain “Fear not!” They are there for a reason and not to merely take up space. We have a Savior and that is what He does; He saves. When I am faced with feelings of doom and gloom, I quickly check myself for obvious sin that is robbing me of my peace. Then I turn to His Holy Word with verses (ESV) such as:
Psalm 56:3 When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.
Deuteronomy 31:6 Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.
Psalm 56:3 When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.
Joshua 1:9 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.
There are about 360 times that the Bible says “Do not fear!” So perhaps there is at least one verse in that grouping that you can call your own.
Turn your day around with these strong yet comforting words from our loving Father. He cares for us!
Loving Lord, thank You for being there for us. When we can’t get it right, You are there and Your Word speaks volumes. Teach us to have enough courage to start anew. AMEN.