This is not the end
We live in a world where faith and fear are choices that determine our thoughts and ultimately our behavior. While I was preparing to leave work on Friday, so many thoughts ran through my mind. The Coronavirus is wreaking so much havoc and creating an environment of fear. As a believer, I cannot worry about what will happen because I know that this is not the end…
Second Thoughts
As I left my job Friday, I began to think about my family; specifically my children. They are living in a time where things are uncertain, schools are closing and hope seems to be lost. If I’m honest I had to quickly remind myself of words that I spoke to a student-athlete….”I know that this is not the end.”
Instead of focusing on the uncertain, I began to turn my heart and mind to the Word of God. So, friend, be encouraged, because Philippians 4:8 says that we are to think on things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy. Let’s build up our faith by diving into the Word of God and filling our lives with truth instead of fear.
Fear not
In the Bible, the command “fear not” is mentioned 365 times. I remember my mom telling me that one day. How awesome is that! A “fear not” for every day of the year! Isaiah 41:10 says:
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God.
I believe that the Lord emphasized this so much because He knew that we will have days when everything around us seems to be falling apart. For me, “fear not” means to choose God over whatever it is that is trying to swallow me alive.
It means to choose to have faith in His Word, His promises, and in His faithfulness towards you because He can be trusted to carry your load. I Peter 5:7 says:
Cast all your anxiety on Him because he cares for you.
Let Faith Arise
So because we know that He cares for us and that His word is true, our response should be one of faith. Faith in the only one who sustains us. Psalm 54:4 says, “God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me.”
Faith in the only one who keeps His promises. Hebrews 10:23 says, “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope that we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” His Word will come true!
Faith in the only one who always makes a way even when it seems like there is no way. Jesus says about himself. I John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
You see, friend, we have to reason to fear or doubt. Our God is with us, He knows us and He is not surprised by where we are in life. He sent His son to die for us just so that we can be in relationship with Him. Would He ever leave us alone in what appears to be our darkest hour? No… that is not the character of our loving Father.
Remember He said, “I will never leave you or forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5b.
Be encouraged! Fill your life with His word and meditate on it because that will help you stand during uncertain times.
Faith builders, fear destroyers.
I want to encourage you to get into the Bible. In order to help you take that first step, I’ve listed some scripture for you to write down, post, memorize or just speak over your life.
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will go with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
“So do not fear, for I am with you, do. not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
“The Lord is my light and my salvation- whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life – of whom shall I be afraid.” Psalms 27:1
“But now this what the Lord says – he who created you Jacob, he who formed you Israel; Do not fear for I have redeemed you, I have summoned you by name and you are mine.” Isaiah 43:1
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalms 23:4
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6
“I sought the Lord and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.” Psalms 34:4
“When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” Psalms 94:19
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27
“The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Psalms 118:6
Final Thoughts
It is so important to fill our hearts and minds with truth. I want to encourage you to start with these verses and allow them to wash over your fears, anxious thoughts, doubts and worries. Stand on the truth of the Word of God and let faith rise!
Hi, my name is Felicia Tucker, and I am a wife and mom of three. My world consists of fostering a healthy marriage and nurturing my children, while integrating that into my career. I am learning how to enjoy the small moments, not sweat the small stuff, and go to sleep with the toys strewn over the living room floor.
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