Don't Be Afraid
By Al Linton, Session Elder
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. (Proverbs 1:7)
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. (Isaiah 41:10)
There seems to be two different messages in the verses listed above. Fear the Lord, but don’t be afraid. It took me a while to understand the difference. Fear of the Lord is not the same as “be afraid.” It is about respect and reverence of the Lord. We’re not “afraid” of the Lord. We love Him and worship Him and revere Him.
“Don’t be afraid” and “fear not” are both related to “fearing the Lord” because without the fear of the Lord, we become afraid of Satan and his ways in our lives. Living with Christ in our hearts helps us live without fear even when life’s challenges come upon us.
Did you know that “fear not” is in the Bible 365 times? That’s one for every day of the year!
When I was growing up I loved old horror movies. One of my favorites was “Dracula” starring Bela Lugosi. His classic line, when he was trying to put his victims into a trance, was “Don’t be afraid.” The victim would usually hold a cross in front of Dracula, and he would cower and back off.
The symbolism here is very powerful. When we have Christ in our hearts, we do not need to be afraid. Our reverence of the Lord helps us to confront our fears 365 days a year. Always hold up the cross of Christ in your heart and face not only your fears but the challenges that come your way.
And keep a cross handy in case you run into a vampire (just kidding).
Prayer: Dear Lord, I love You and I know You love me and that You will protect me. I don’t have to be afraid. In all circumstances I pray to you and allow my fear OF the Lord to guide me in my ways. In Christ’s name. Amen
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