John 14.1, 27“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me … Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
In the Upper Room the night before his crucifixion, Jesus twice told the disciples “Let not your hearts be troubled.” Believe in God, Jesus said, and believe in me. Live by faith, not fear. I will give you peace.
In the midst of life’s battles, faith focuses on God’s presence. “When you go out to war against your enemies, and see horses and chariots and an army larger than your own, you shall not be afraid of them, for the Lord your God is with you, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.” (Deuteronomy 20.1)
Faith focuses on God’s power. “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust and will not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation.” (Isaiah 12.2)
Faith focuses on God’s principles. “I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word.” (Psalm 119.15-16)
Faith prays continuously, fervently, and boldly. “I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears” (Psalm 34.4).
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4.6-7)
The focus of fear is very different. Fear fixates on problems and perceived threats. Fear focuses on self and circumstances. Fear forgets about God. Fear doesn’t trust; it worries.
May we literally take to heart the words of Jesus and walk by faith, not fear.
“The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.” (Romans 16:20)
The Lord is calling.
