In the story of the advent, again and again, we hear the phrase, “Fear not!”
“Fear not Mary” (Luke 1:30); “Fear not, Joseph” (Matthew 1:20-23); “fear not shepherds” (Luke 2:9-12). Like Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds, we are so prone to fear. We’re afraid because we feel alone and forsaken, when we encounter the unknown, and when we face something bigger than us.
The advent story teaches why we do not need to be afraid. When we feel alone and forsaken we need to remember the message of the Advent: a Saviour has been born to us…and they will call Him, Immanuel which means God with us.
Because of Jesus God is approachable and very near—even holding our hands at times.
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”(Isaiah 41:10).
As we encounter the New Year let’s remember it’s not unknown to God.
The future has its uncertainties, but we enter it every day, confident in the sovereignty and sufficiency of God. Our security is not in knowing where we are, but Who we are with! We are with God Who loves us and always wants the best for us.
“God is faithful, reliable, trustworthy and therefore ever true to His promise and He can be depended on” (1 Corinthians 1:9 Amplified)
Today as we face something bigger than us, let’s remember that God is bigger than the things that threaten us. He will do the impossible through us. In all these things (whatever we’re facing) we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For every day of the year, there is a “fear not” in the Bible. Do you have one for today? Try these three from the advent for the next few days, they will bring you Joy. “Fear not Mary” (Luke 1:30); “Fear not, Joseph” (Matthew 1:20-23); “fear not shepherds” (Luke 2:9-12).
“The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear: The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid… In the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling.” Psalm 27:1,2,5
Let’s Pray
Yahweh, we thank You because You are with us and Jesus lives within us, we have nothing to fear. Father thanks for the reminder from the story of the advent. That I have nothing to fear. In Jesus’s Name. Amen
