Read: Isaiah 41:10-13
I will fear no evil. (Psalm 23:4b)
If we are honest, all of us are afraid of something. I fear bees, health challenges, and losing my memory to name a few. Some fears are bigger than others, but all of them create an intense feeling of helplessness.
David had every reason to fear. His life was in danger and evil was all around him. Yet, he put his trust in the Lord. Yesterday, we talked about walking through the valley. Today, we will learn to walk through the valley without fear, just as David did.
We can walk without fear because of what we read in Isaiah 41:10: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God” (NIV). Isaiah reminds his people who are in captivity that they have nothing to fear. God is with them. He is their God, and he will strengthen them. He will help them. He will uphold them. God repeats this promise in verse 13. Like the Israelites, we need to be reminded repeatedly not to fear. And we need to be reminded why we shouldn’t fear. When we have the very presence of God with us, we have no reason to fear. He is on our side. He fights for us (Exod. 14:14).
What do you fear today? What do you fear about this new year? Be reminded that the one who created you and loves you will not abandon you. He is with you. Where do you need his strength? Know his righteous right hand upholds you. With God on your side, you can walk without fear.
As you pray, walk without fear. Trust that the Lord is with you.
About the Author
Nancy Boote, an ordained minister in the Reformed Church of America, lives in Holland, Michigan, with her husband.
