Do Not Be Afraid (Part 3)

by Beth Henry

Per the website, Got Questions: Biblical Answers, when the Bible says fear not it illustrates the following: “The fear of God keeps us from sin; the fear of man leads to sin, and that is what we are to avoid: ‘Fear of man will prove to be a snare’ (New International Version, Proverbs 29:25). Also, the biblical command do not fear does not negate the need for prudence and caution in this world. We are not to be cavalier but prayerful in the face of danger.” (“What does the Bible mean when it tells us to fear not?”)

According to John Gill, the phrase, “I will uphold you with my righteous right hand,” references ‘God’s strength either through His almighty power, or through his son, Jesus, who sits at his right hand.  The Lord is the author of righteousness to his people.”  (Gill)

Have you ever felt like you were lost in a Godforsaken place?  We often perceive our situation as everlasting with no glimpse of hope. The good news is, emotions are fleeting. Feelings of despair and/or happiness come and go.  The longing of the soul, however, is found in intimate relationship with the Lord, Jesus Christ.  Hebrews 13:5 quotes, “God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”  (New International Version, Hebrews 13:5).  It is through this promise that we find true joy and peace of mind.

Verse:

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”  (New International Version, Isaiah 41:10)

Prayer:

When things seem hopeless, I ask for you to guide and direct my heart and mind that I might seek your face.  Your plan is perfect. “I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (New International Version, Jeremiah 29:11)

Work Cited

Gill, John. “What does Isaiah 41:10 mean?” John Gill’s Exposition of the Bible. biblestudytools.com/isaiah/41- 

10.

“Hebrews 13:5.” Bible Gateway, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, 

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+13%3A5&version=NIV

“Isaiah 41:10.” Bible Gateway, HarperCollins Christian Publishing,

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2041%3A10&version=NIV

 “Jeremiah 29:11.” Bible Gateway, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, 

biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+29%3A11&version=NIV

“Proverbs 29:25.” Bible Gateway, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, 

biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+29%3A25&version=NIV

“What does the Bible mean when it tells us to fear not?” Got Questions: Your Questions, Biblical Answers, 

Westbow Press; Illustrated Edition, 2020, gotquestions.org/fear-not.