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From The Crucible (by Pastor Linda Pugsley)

7/20/2012

2 Comments

 
Picture
© Bill McCown | www.myghcf.com
You know, when you think of it, fear is a strange little critter. I know a Marine who fought in Iraq and Afghanistan and was fearless in doing so, yet freaks out and runs at the sight of the spider. Or what about the lion tamer who is afraid of a house cat; or the husky construction worker who is deathly afraid of a mouse? Fear – what is this thing? Fear can cripple your responses on the one hand or magnify your actions on the other. The fear of infection might stir you to seek medical help; the fear of falling off a cliff might steer you away from its edge; the fear of a harsh discipline might encourage you to improve your behavior. Hm-m, fear...you can flail or sail.

What does God say about it? He does say to fear Him, but in all else He says, "Fear not". Of course, I had to look up the Greek and Hebrew meanings in which those commands were written. When God said to "fear" Him, it means be in awe, caution and reverence. For all else, when He says, "fear not", it means don’t be alarmed or frightened by what you feel, think or see. He can say that with confidence because there is nothing higher or stronger than Him, nor is there anything impossible to Him. So if He is in you, you can tell yourself "fear not" for those things that assail you. And yet, you can turn right around and know that the fear, the awe, the caution toward the Lord, IS the beginning of all wisdom. Endure the fire...it's producing pure gold!


2 Comments
Kristina link
7/20/2012 02:05:56 am

Short sweet and to the point. I really needed to read this as I have been struggling as of late with a sudden and random fit of anxiety. I have been fighting it with all of my might and these are the things I have been telling myself. It is nice to have it confirmed by others. Many blessings to you and thank you for spreading the faith.

Reply
Carolyn Marshall link
7/20/2012 05:54:24 am

Kristina, sometimes we do make things more complicated for ourselves in our struggling. But Jesus gave us the freedom from this when He died for us. You said "short sweet and to the point", and that is exactly the way He wants it to be. We need to focus our eyes on Him and remember He is ALWAYS with us and, because He is always with us, there is no reason to fear anything.

There is a short praise song we sing at our church called Fear Not. It comes to mind often when I am in some of those dark spots. It says:

"Fear not, for I am with you; Fear not, for I am with you; Fear not, for I am with you says the Lord.

I have redeemed you, I have called you by name; child you are mine.
When you walk through the water, I will be there, and through the flame.
You'll not be drowned; you'll not be burned; for I am with you."

What comforting thoughts to know that He is always with us no matter what! Claim His peace always, Kristina; you are His!

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