What causes you to be fearful? We may encounter health issues, financial problems, relational difficulties, or natural disasters. The disciples were with Jesus on the Sea of Galilee and became fearful when a storm assailed their small boat. Fear is a normal response when we face uncertain and threatening circumstances. The Bible teaches that we do not need to be controlled by our circumstances. Over three hundred times the Bible commands us not to fear. How can we fulfill this command? A first step is understanding the character of God and our relationship to Him.

God brought prophets to bring a message of judgment to the people as a consequence of their sinful behavior. Isaiah preached of the coming judgment, but He also brought a message of hope and consolation. Isaiah revealed how the people could overcome their fears and walk in confidence:

Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will also help you, I will also uphold you with My righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10)

Isaiah communicated God’s word to the people, encouraging them that they do not need to fear because God is with them. The word afraid has the connotation of anxiously looking about. We must realize that God knows and cares for His people. First, we see that God can strengthen us. Isaiah declared the blessing of God’s provision for His people:

He gives strength to the weary, and to the one who lacks might He increases power. (Isaiah 40:29)

This is a great encouragement to a weary soul. God not only provides strength, but He helps us in time of need. He reiterates that point in subsequent verses:

For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand, Who says to you, “Do not fear, I will help you. Do not fear, you worm Jacob, you people of Israel; I will help you,” declares the LORD, “and your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel.” (Isaiah 41:13-14)

Finally, we see that God upholds us with His righteous right hand. This is a picture of God’s power, authority, and favor. Isaiah later presents a picture of that power:

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you. (Isaiah 43:2)

Isaiah has presented several reasons why we do not need to succumb to fear. We will experience challenges at times and if we we’re not fearful, then it could mean that we don’t understand the seriousness of the situation. Courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to overcome our fear. Identify your fears and bring them before God who is able to give you the courage to overcome them.

Rick Higgins

Associate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark