Though, to be honest, how can God expect us to live fearlessly when everything around us seems so out of control? It sounds wonderful in principle. Hurricane destruction. Israel is being attacked. Election fury. Port attacks. record levels of anxiety and sadness. God be merciful.
God commands in Isaiah 40:11, “Do not be alarmed. I agree with you. Since I am your God, you have nothing to fear. I’ll endow you with power. I’ll support you. I’ll maintain a tight hold on you and hold you stable.” (Bible translation from MSG)
When God orders something, such as fear not, we can bet on three things: It’s for good cause, it’s for our good, and it brings Him glory.
God is speaking directly to Israel in Isaiah 40:11, and she knows that there is danger all around her. Fear can only overcome Israel by God’s pledge of His presence.
The “evil presences” of the Bible, as highlighted by Kathie Lee Giffford, cast a dramatic light on conflicts in the modern era.
The promise is the same and it applies to us now, even if we are not Israel and the threats we face are different.
Not because everything is OK, but rather because “I’m your God,” God declares that there is no reason for worry.
