“Famines, diseases, and wars. Oh my!” Sometimes my mental list of fears sounds like a scene out of The Wizard of Oz. Let’s be real; there’s so much to be scared of: oppressive authority, broken relationships, miscarriages, natural disasters, difficult family dynamics, sickness, and death—and the list goes on. You may find it odd to think about fearful things during Advent, but fear and death are a part of the reason Jesus entered our time and world.
Do you know what one of the most-repeated commands in Scripture is? It’s, “Do not be afraid.” This command is repeated so often it tells us something about our human nature. We’re prone to fear. When the curse of sin entered the world, so did fear. It casts a shadow on every aspect of our humanity. The security of eternal life and perfect love in God’s presence became uncertain. Being in fear’s grip is exhausting, and makes false prophets of us as we entertain endless what-ifs. Thankfully, fear will not have the last word.
If we looked up all the Bible passages that said, “Do not be afraid,” we would find that they’re often linked to God’s presence and salvation. In today’s reading, Jesus, seeing the terror on His disciples’ faces said, “Have courage! It is I. Do not be afraid” (Matthew 14:27).
Fear and sin can only be banished by the presence of God. So God came. He dwelled among us for a time, just as the prophets foretold. And He made a way for God’s Spirit to dwell in us so that His perfect love could forever chase away our sorrows, sins, and fears. He has given us new hearts and a spirit of “power, love, and sound judgment” (2Timothy 1:7) so that we might have new life and have it abundantly (John 10:10).
What are you worried or fretting about today? The holidays can be difficult for many of us. Here is good news of great joy! God isn’t irritated by our need for comfort and refuge. He’s eager to fill those needs for us in Himself. He is for us, and His presence drives away our sins and fears like light scattering the darkness. Don’t be afraid; He has promised that nothing can separate us from His love in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:31–39).
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135 thoughts on "From Our Fears and Sins Release Us Day 9"
Lord you are good!
I’ve been there my friend, and it can truly be terrifying and paralyzing if you allow the fear to overshadow everything. God is capable of sustaining you through this time and wants you to lean into His strength while you you endure this season of health challenges. He is good and will help you in ways you won’t even imagine!
Remember, sweet one, salvation is a GIFT of God, not by works so that no one may boast
Romans 3:23-25
[23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, [24] and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, [25] whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God’s righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins.
Galatians 2:16
[16] yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.
My fear lately has been what if I am not doing enough…if I’m really just coasting and not serving others or being obedient as I should. Will I reach the end and realize I never knew him?
Praise the Lord!!!!
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Today’s study was more to me than just about the fear and anxiety which I have too often. But the verse that stood out to me the most was Psalm 27:10 “For my father and mother have forsaken me, but the Lord will take me in.” I grew up without parents and my living situation was not very loving. I’ve struggled for years to see and believe God’s love for me. And yet today I believe! The writer said “ God isn’t irritated by our need for comfort and refuge.” How true and how lucky I am to be a child of the Heavenly Father ❤️
Praying for you and the doors God is opening for you
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It was refreshing to hear that Jesus takes joy in fulfilling our fear. Lord, take my fears and provide comfort only you can.
Amen
The Lord has a place for you and will meet your needs.
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The devil is a deceiver. He can deceive me into thinking I need to spend my energy on shallow things, that my thoughts are spiraling beyond my control, and that I am not enough. He wants me to dwell on mistakes, failures and foolishness. But, the more I reach out to God with all of my senses- surrender my vices and pride- I am redeemed. I am stronger. I am a more joyful image of my God. Rebuke the devil. Ruin his day by handing your anxiety to the Lord.
Amen.
I’m a couple days late yet this is exactly what I needed today. I was laid off yesterday. Bittersweet in a way. Losing the paychecks isn’t good as I’m a single mom, but I cried out for help because of the environment I worked in. He closed that door and I can’t wait to see where we are going.
I love that “immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught hold of Peter”—- not when he felt like it or later that day, no — IMMEDIATELY!!! And Jesus reaches for us — immediately— and catches hold of us in our need. Hallelujah- what an amazing Father we have. He’s a good good father!”
Amen, Churchmouse!
Love love love these scriptures. I needed those reminders today
2 Timothy 1:7 is soo good!
Timothy had, it seems, displayed a spirit of timidity. Paul urged a spirit of power, of love, of self-discipline, for that is what God has given.
-A spirit of power, for fear brings weakness; God’s power is available to us.
-A spirit of love, for fear brings distance and harshness, and affects our relationship with others. Fear makes barriers, but love reconciles.
– A spirit of self-discipline (a sound mind), for fear brings panic, and an inability to cope. We need self-discipline and self-control.
2 Timothy 1:7 is soo good!
Timothy had, it seems, displayed a spirit of timidity. Paul urged a spirit of power, of love, of self-discipline, for that is what God has given.
-A spirit of power, for fear brings weakness; God’s power is available to us.
A spirit of love, for fear brings distance and harshness, and affects our relationship with others. Fear makes barriers, but love reconciles.
A spirit of self-discipline (a sound mind), for fear brings panic, and an inability to cope. We need self-discipline and self-control.
2 Timothy 1:7 is soo good!
Love this reminder!
So true. It’s been years since I read that. Thank you. He was so wise.
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I’m loving and so blessed by all the responses to @ALISA W…all true!!
My dear, just know that so much can come from the little moments you catch here and there — to look Baby in her eyes, to be face to face, to carry her inside your shirt as you spend time with the older ones…all the things you think are (too) small moments add up. As a foster mom to babies, I echo what was said about adoption…these babies in my arms grow and flourish and learn connection and certainly don’t come from my body!!!
@HEIDI and @MOLLY R, thank you for your testimonies!
Absolutely LOVED: “The gifts are NOT ON MY REGISTRY typically – they are of His own list. But that is where my humility comes in – to practice recognizing HIS good vs. my perspective.” !!
God bless each of us who need specific prayers, whether shared or not ❤️
Aligning my heart with Gods truth… “you are more than a conquerer”
@Alisa W praying for you mama! You can do hard things!! God can also do big things, keep faithful and hopeful. Give it all to God! Do you have a church community to help you guys? I’d reach out. Lots of love to you.
I struggle with fear and anxiety. How awesome is that God knew we would be like this and over and over it’s in His word, do not fear.
Praying
There was a study done that gratitude and anxiety cannot exist in your brain at the same time. Fix your thoughts on the Lord who gives us new life and accept it’s abundance with gratitude; he washes away our every fear and worry.
A wise one has told me “God’s not in the ‘what ifs’… but if the ‘what ifs’ become reality, He IS there.”
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Kristen thanks for sharing this !
What an apt excerpt Caprice.
Wow these readings were perfect! My anxiety has been creeping up so much lately and I needed to hear God say “don’t be afraid. “ please ladies if you could pray for our childcare situation, still with nothing long term or full time but trusting God will bring the right situation when we need it.
I notice that I can really lack clarity of thinking (sound judgement/self-control/sensibility) when I’m acting out of a place of fear or anxiety. It’s hard to consider small things like over-eating (lack of self-control or sound judgement) in the moment, and I know God is calling to me to consider those small actions. Holy Spirit, can you bring to light what I am fearing so that you can be with me in the emotions. I know your power to comfort is greater than any man-made product or quick fix satisfaction.
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I feel like recently I’m being pushed in regards to how much fear has a wrangle on my life. There’s so much that I am brave about but vulnerability and relationally, I am afraid, I am raw. To see Jesus reach out to Peter, in the midst of the storm, having lost sight of Him, crying out in a simple prayer, and grab tight to his hand… I long for that. I long to feel my Savior pull me out of my mental storm and just hold me tight. That’s my prayer tonight. Help me to cry out and be okay with being saved.
I once heard someone say “anxiety is not viewing reality properly” so if you’re anxious it’s because you aren’t seeing straight or in other words can see all of God’s, goodness, provision, and care for you. But it’s still there even if you can’t see it
Wow thanks for thia
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“No one ever told me that grief felt so like fear. I am not afraid, but the sensation is like being afraid. The same fluttering in the stomach, the same restlessness, the yawning. I keep on swallowing.
At other times it feels like being mildly drunk, or concussed. There is a sort of invisible blanket between the world and me. I find it hard to take in what anyone says. Or perhaps, hard to want to take it in. It is so uninteresting. Yet I want the others to be about me. I dread the moments when the house is empty. If only they would talk to one another and not to me.”
C.S. Lewis, A Grief Observed
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@Kimberly Z, I relate to you too on several things you said!! I have struggled with when sometimes people hint that anxiety is a sin…I definitely have thoughts on this though. I do not believe physical anxiety is a sin that we actively commit. It can be a medical condition, or a reaction of our bodies to circumstances we face… which is a *result* of sin in the world. I think there is a fine line here. I do think anxiety can sometimes stem from a sin in our lives. For me, I feel like I can tend to think so much of myself and be self-focused and honestly prideful: I think about how I look, what others think of me, if I am seen as pretty/worthy/funny etc. That is something I’ve been trying to work on. That I have value and worth and am beautiful because of Christ, not because of what anyone says about me or thinks about me. I find my value from who Christ is. I know who I am because of who He is and His character. It’s hard though, but it is so awesome to think that even though my emotions change, Christ never does. But that’s what I’ve been learning. I recommend The Porch ministry series called “Therapy” from last year. That was really helpful for me last year. Praying for you girl, we’re in this together!!
I love that we are thinking about fear during our advent study. Bad things happen any time of the year and as imperfect people we can struggle with fear and worry. I have struggled with anxiety many times in my life and one season of anxiety actually began Christmas eve. But God met me in my fear and anxiety and another Christmas Eve I decided to follow after him. Since that night, he has been helping me turn from anxiety and worry to worship and trust him. ❤️
I feel this post on so many levels. I have been struggling so much with fear and anxiety lately that it is really hard to let go. I heard somebody say that having anxiety is a sin and that made me feel even more defeated. I definitely don’t wake up everyday hoping to feel that like. @Taylor I feel ya! I too struggle with the questions of whether or not I will ever be married or have kids. But I truly feel like if it’s on your heart God can make it happen. I am trying to really take in each moment these days and be present but it is very hard for me. Praying for all of you this week.
I also found Jesus through YoungLife. ❤️ I am also praying for the club talk!
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The last part of the last sentence Beverly wrote, “He has promised that nothing can separate us from His love in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:31–39).”, really gave me hope. I know I can ALWAYS, ALWAYS count on my loving Heavenly Father to be there for me, no matter the circumstances. Yes, I’ll always have fear in my life, and fear can be good at times, but I know I can turn to my God in those times.
Father God, we turn to You this special time of the year to be with us and alleviate our fears, concerns, worries and burdens. Remind us why we celebrate this time of year — the birth of Your Holy Son. Be with us through the coming days and weeks. Help those who are mourning the loss of a loved one, let them know that loved one is there in spirit. Remind us this should be a time of giving to others. Help families reunite during this time. In the name of Your One and Only Son Christ Jesus, amen.
Sisters, be blessed and know you can ALWAYS count on God to be at your side not matter the circumstances.
Love this so much!!! I love the verse in Romans 8. I just got my SRT Bible back from being rebound, and oh it is SO pretty!!!! In my Bible near Romans 8, I wrote how I read those verses on the beach in Hawaii. It always reminds me that the length and width and height of the ocean put together still doesn’t compare to God’s love for us. And that same distance of all the of oceans put together still can not separate us from the love of Christ Jesus. No height nor depth or power can separate from God’s love. So thankful for that, even in the middle of our fears and anxieties. He is with us!!
3 Though an army encamp against me,
my heart shall not fear;
though war arise against me,
yet I will be confident. – Psalms 27:3
The presence of God. That is our heart’s home. In the midst of my husbands terrible accident, our Father, our Savior has been my peace and safety. His Spirit has been so faithful in comfort and guidance. My words fall short of His glory and faithfulness! Oh May we keep our eyes focused on Him! Merry Christmas
Love this. Been feeling so fearful of the future with having a chronic Lyme disease relapse and my health being so bad. This devotional and scriptures this morning have me so much comfort. ❤️ He is for us and will never leave us!
Praying for you and your club talk! I found Jesus through Younglife. Don’t be afraid because God has you in His mighty hands
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I read these words and was taken back to Genesis 3, where Adam and Eve are afraid for the first time, a result of sin. Also reminded that the only remedy for fear is peace, from our Prince of Peace.
So powerful
This hits home for me SO much! I didn’t became a Christian until I was 47. Growing up we didn’t attend church, God wasn’t talked about. Not that my mom was an atheist but there was no importance put on the subject of God. I’ve had a few health scares and the first one turned me to God. My husband brought me to God. Without him I may not have found Jesus. Trust is still hard for me. God has answered my prayers more times than I deserve but I still fear…-a lot. I do know that if I laid it ALL at His feet I could be at peace. I’m always working on that. I’m blessed to have a Father who’s patient with his children. He’s still working in me and I’m so grateful for it.
Alisa W – man, I could fell the overwhelming sensation of your words/your present circumstances in my soul! Just 4 years ago we were a family of 5 living in a rented 2-bedroom apartment. It had been 6 years (eventually 7). We knew we wanted at least one more baby (making it 4). I hesitated in my despair: since we were married in 2010 we had one thing after another leaving us financially devastated. My husband was in the construction business and it struggled being a place to find consistent work coming out of the recession. We even lost our first home during that time when our firstborn was just 10 months old. We found ourselves living with my inlaws and newlyweds and new parents. I didn’t think it could get worse, but I felt worse staring at my tiny home with no hope of ever having our own. I prayed, well, more like yelled and cried to God for a time. Then I just became content…it was truly a miracle. In that contentment came my 4th pregnancy, steady work for my husband, and the opportunity to buy not only our first home, but a dream home at that – 6 acres! It’s been 3 years this month since signing for that miracle. It was 3 weeks before our 4th child was born. Not twins, but all of a sudden we had a 6 month renovation (done almost entirely by my husband alone) leaving me feeling like a single parent with a newborn and 3 other kids that I homeschooled, all while packing and getting ready to move. It was a season of pure survival. Looking back I can see God in every step. His faithfulness is astounding. Now we are all settled and my last baby is about to turn 3. The days are getting easier and easier, and it’s been one of my favorite homeschooling years yet! I say all this in testimony to what God can do when we just lay it out at his feet, over and over again. The good, the bad, the ugly. Spend as much mental space you can on simply focusing on God, inviting Him in, redeeming the shortcomings of being in survival mode. Remember, these seasons with new little ones aren’t something to work around, they are ones to embrace and settle in to. They ARE the homeschooling, and it is a precious time for the whole family! I am praying for you – sorry for the saga I just wrote. I just want to offer you all the hope I can, in Jesus! He will bless you all abundantly, beyond what you ask or think! And remember the blessings come in His presence, his peace, and his redeeming work in your home and family!
Oh, and I am a twin. My brother and I make #4 and #5 after my parents said the infamous words, “we’d like ONE more!” My mother later realized it was the perfect way to end – we had built in playmates, making it so much easier when our older siblings were off to school. What a sweet precious gift in giving not ONE, but TWO daughters. How cool is He??
I have so much fear of being a new mom and the unknowns that come with it. This morning my anxiety was high and I have been so worried about things, reading this reminded me to trust in Him and he will provide and to not be afraid. What a wonderful reminder I needed this morning ❤️
Needed to hear this! I’m giving a club talk to my Young Life kids tonight and a lot of fear is setting in. What a relief to be reminded I am not a slave to fear!
Good morning sisters! In “Jesus Calling”, this morning was a message that I think can be used when fear creeps in. It says, “whenever you feel distant from Me, say, “Surely the Lord is in this place!” Then ask Me to give you awareness of My Presence. This is a prayer that I delight to answer. Taken from Genesis 28.
Alisa, I too had twins, boy/girl normal weight and a C-section. You will bond don’t fret and the first few months are tiring nursing. But you will get into a routine. I didn’t have other children so I can only imagine you definitely have a lot to do. After your parents go, maybe consider your church there maybe some ladies willing to help a day or so a week. When my daughter gave birth overseas (Guam), no family there and I could only go for 3 weeks, but her church was wonderful and I was so grateful that they stepped in when I couldn’t. Don’t be afraid to reach out. God bless you and your beautiful family.
Prayers lifted for other requests too!
Alisa W- praying specifically for you and your sweet family today. YOU are exactly the mom God intended for all of your littles, and He will be next to you every step of the way. I too have homeschooled for many years far from any family, and through the addition of multiple babies to our family. It is hard, it is tiring, it is frustrating, but it also eventually gets better every time. It takes time to bond and to adjust to your family’s “new normal”, so give yourself grace. Grace in parenting, grace in homeschooling, grace in returning to everyday life. Easier said than done, I know, but I pray that you will feel God’s strength, His power, and His joy as you love on your littles today. He did not bring you to this spot just to leave you. He is there through it all.
I am praying for your grandson!
If the family needs help with housing please look up our website! We can help financially support families this way!!
http://www.elijahshearthouse.org
I am praying for your grandson!
If the family needs help with housing please look up our website! We can help financially support families this way!!
I am praying for your grandson!
It is nice to read about God being there for us in all our seasons of life. We need not fear or feel sadness.
Good morning SRT sisters! Happy Monday! God isn’t irrigated with me. Brings me comfort today on this gloomy Monday. God is good ALL the time! HE hears the simple prayers of His children. Thanking God for my sweet friend G. We’ve been friends for over 20 years. Thankful that we, together can pray about the simplest things and we know God “hears” us. Lots of homework this week again as we come to a close of my class. Please pray I can manage work, class and home life. And for the prayer request that my friend G and I were praying about last night.
Thank you all for your support and prayers these past weeks… and your sweet words in response to my post yesterday (Sunday)… God has me. I know He does. I don’t know where or how He is leading but I know I want to follow. I know my only pace of true security is with Him. I know if He doesn’t provide in the way I’m wanting, then most likely I’m not having a God’s Kingdom focus, but an earthly Heidi-kingdom focus and I know enough to know the danger in that. I can do nothing profitable apart from Him.
To give into my fear is to hand the steering wheel to the Enemy and give him my glory and trust.
I’m gonna say no thanks to that idea.. ;)
love you all… ❤️
ALISA W- I echo the encouragement of prayers for you from so many on here today – and know that many read and pray but don’t always “report” on it.. you are covered, sister.. :)
I get you – I’m in that season and have been for 4 years now. It was supposed to be temporary.. it was supposed to be a quick transition, selling our home, moving into an apartment for a year while we confirmed we liked the new schools/area, then buy a place and settle in. Again – that was 4 years ago and we are in the same place. I know your frustration, your confusion, your lack of space (we have 3 littles), your lack of places to “hide” from everyone ;) – all of it. I’ve cried, I’ve accepted, I’ve again rejected, I’ve been angry, I’ve been grateful…. all of it. Here is where I am today – God is only good. God will supply (and HAS supplied) all of my needs. If I – an imperfect, flawed human-mom can give loving, gracious gifts to my children – HOW. MUCH. MORE. can my Heavenly Father who only sees me in love and grace and acceptance? The gifts are not on my registry typically – they are of His own list. But that is where my humility comes in – to practice recognizing HIS good vs. my perspective. If I knew what He knew, I know I would keep myself exactly where I am. Even in the hard. I don’t know what God is doing with me or my family right now. I don’t know where some payments will come from. But He comforts and He provides and if it is not the way I expected, I trust it is somehow better. When my children have begun asking about “our new house” and wondering if/when – it can feel really hard, like I’m keeping something from them. However, I am learning to teach them to shift THEIR perspective as well. To open their eyes to the fact that from a global standpoint, the fact we have a home with security, beds, food – that they have NEVER wondered where they will sleep that night or if there will be breakfast in the morning… that they have TWO whole parents who adore and love and support them… They (WE’VE) won the jackpot of grace to have all that we have.
This is a season. It is hard. And your God is strong. and so are you. Fear of those things is natural – and? you have a supernatural spirit alive inside of you. I pray you will be able to cast your fears on Him, search the scriptures and write in your heart and mind and quote outloud the TRUTH your God speaks over you – and trust you have nothing to fear. Fear can only bring in scarcity, anger, distrust and you know of all the things you can breathe into your family that isn’t it :) So, in Him, breathe LIFE and trust in the God that has you. Let your children be able to look back and say “It was tough – I know mom struggled.. but her faith in all of it was foundational…” :)
A friend sent me a podcast a while back – search on your preferred platform for “Jill Briscoe, you can persevere in hard things” – she was a guest on a podcast I listen to called “Made for This” and the entire talk was so encouraging to me in my situation – I really think it would be for you as well and I hope you’ll take a listen :)
OH – and if not being mentally present with your girls at birth means no good connection – then that would mean that every adoptive mom couldn’t have connection with her child and we KNOW that isn’t the case!! :) My adopted friend Jamie and her mom are practically BFF…! Take heart – that one tiny moment in their lives in NO way dictates the level of connection the 3 of you will have :) :) :) :)
Good morning, today’s message came at the exact moment that I needed it to. One of my grandsons (6) is going through some health issues and fear is trying to settle in! I thank God for His word and His promises!!! If you have time today will you please pray for my grandson? Thank you
Jo, your comment was spot on! That on which we focus will rule us.
I have certainly seen that in my life. And I love the peace of God much more than the fears.
The SRT Do Not Fear study was very good and during that study I created a Do Not Fear playlist that someone suggested. I still play it when I need to.
Alisa, you do have 5 little blessings now and God will see you through. I raised 4 blessings and homeschooled them as well. There were some rough days but God was with us and provided all that we needed. Just post some Scripture around your little apartment to read when fear tries to creep into your head. I will be praying for you.
Caroline C I’m also praying for you, your husband, and your marriage.
So thankful to have this community.
Hugs to all ❤️
So many reasons read here to fear, but so much love, grace and comfort promised by our Father that we need only to keep our eyes fixed on him. Lifting all you sisters who are experiencing anxiety over life situations. Praying for His comfort to wash over you.
May this be a week that we may see Him release us from fear.
Congratulations on your sweet baby girls, Alisa, and praying for you during trying circumstances. He’s got you all! And thankful @JenniferlovesJesus for God’s protection over your life!
I am so grateful that nothing can separate me from God. When I am afraid I have to put my trust and faith in Him. Have a great Monday!
@Alisa W- I break these lies off you in the name of Jesus. It is time to start speaking HOPE over your life, friend. God does not think of you as a second class citizen, but His precious and beloved daughter. Your family is so precious to Him, He gave Himself over to death for you all. I think of the parable Jesus said. “If you who are evil can give your children good things, how much more God?” I pray you truly receive insight and know God can do miracles in your life. Believe that Jesus can give you a miracle bond with your babies. Believe God can create a home environment that is safe and secure and comfortable. He can do all thing. His arm is not too short. Let His power and strength guide you. He is with you and He will give you all you need.
So good. Much needed… I’m a little over 5 weeks pregnant after a miscarriage and this resonates so well. Trusting in Jesus and Fear Not! ❤️
Amen! Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!
Matthew 14:31 (CSB): Immediately Jesus reached out his hand, caught hold of him, and said to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?
….When we are sinking in our negative thoughts or poor choices, Jesus reached out His hand to pull us back to Him! He will never let us go!
Romans 8:37–39 (CSB): “37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
…NOTHING can separate us from God’s love!!! I want to share this mercy and security with everyone!!!
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love, and sound judgment.”
…God wants us to be free in Him! Free to live, to love, to come back from our mistakes, to show others the same mercy He has shown us!
What a GREAT GOD we serve! We love Him…because He first loved us!
Enjoying a moment to slow down after preparing for and hosting a celebration at my new home. I thank God for His immeasurable blessings!
Being in His presence cast all darkness away. He is our light in Christ Jesus. Thank you Father for nothing can separate us from your love.
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I cannot imagine doing this life without God by my side. Whenever I have fears, I pray. I’m so very thankful that God takes those fears and replaces them with peace. “Do not be afraid!”
Wow and wow! I daily read the Joyce Meyer devo and have during the holidays, your advent devo. Today, these two readings were like a bomb dropping! So inspired that now I know that something beautiful, wonderful and awe inspiring is about to come my way! Thank you for the good word and the lovely art work – love it!!!
That is an awesome saying !
Caroline, I read this and it made my heart hurt for you. My husband left me last year, so I understand the feelings you are having. There’s so much fear in the unknown, not to mention the heartbreak. When those feeling start to overtake you, you can simply say “God is my protector and provider.” I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to say this out loud. Is my story what I hoped it would be? Absolutely not, but I trust and believe God will use it for good. I’m praying with you today! ❤️
Twin mom here – mine are twelve now but how well do I remember feeling how you do now, at the beginning. You and the girls will do it together! Fear not – every tough moment will be overcome. Look how well your body already nourished them to such healthy weights! You can do it! Fear not, fear not, fear not.
I am behind on this study. I just read the devotion for Born to Set Thy People Free – Day 5, and I really wanted to mention a song that I love to go with that wonderful devotion on the freedom from sin’s power that Jesus gives us. It’s called Walking Free” by Micah Tyler. There’s a good video that goes along with it on YouTube too! Jesus came to set us free! He doesn’t want us to be bound any longer! Fear is one of those things. There is beautiful peace and rest that comes in our hearts when we truly trust Him with everything, and no matter what happens, are assured that He will be with us and see us through.
I’m so sorry, Caroline. Praying for you today.
I’ve been really behind and failing on my relationship. I want this but like everything else, I know I need to do work. I am thankful for reading this today. Fear is something I have really been feeling lately.
A perfect read after a sleepless night. My mind wonders & becomes full of fear & anxious thoughts. My grandmother once told me, “Don’t count sheep, talk to the Shepherd!” I do & it brings me slumber. But, last night was rough. Thanks for reminding us, trust in the Lord, talk to the Shepherd, cast your worries on him. Do not be afraid!
Praying for all of you! Don’t let fear win. Have hope, friends.
The Do Not Fear study by SRT is a good one for those who struggle with fear and anxiety. Highly suggest. Was a favorite study!
You are in my prayers. God is in control. ❤️
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Peace begins and ends with Jesus. What we do in the middle determines how much of His peace we experience. Christ is the perfect stillness in the chaos that swirls around us. He was. And He is. He came. He comes now with His victorious and infinite love. And He will come again. I felt the mystery of His peace as I sat in the swirls of smoke and broken glass from the passenger seat of a car that drove through a tire store lobby on Friday. The providence of God and His protection that day was a miracle as no one was badly injured. I found myself being calm and controlled by a supernatural strength, and there was peace. I was completely aware of God’s presence. I felt no fear. The prayer I recorded early that morning included this: “No matter where we are, no matter what we do, let us remember You are with us… we are freed from the bondage of this world. Even if we feel the weight of life, take the yoke upon You as we rest in Your strength. May we resist the enemy by Your Word and Your testimony. Lord, have mercy. Maranatha. Amen.” When a prayer is answered like that, all I can do is thank Him and give God all the glory. I didn’t act in my own strength, but by His. The rhythms of my faith are kept in sync by resting in God’s strength. I begin and end with Him. And I am more careful of what I do in between. I am careful with what I fill my heart’s desire with. “My heart says this about You: ‘seek His face.’ Lord, I will seek Your face.” (Psalm 27:8). “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart be courageous. Wait for the Lord.” (v. 14). “Do not fear… I will be with you when…” (Isaiah 43:1-2). This is Advent. This is what I wait for. I know He is worth the wait in the long and the short. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love, and sound judgement.” (2 Timothy 1:7). I will trust You Lord. I will wait for You. Until… Maranatha.
Alisa, praying for strength and courage and joy for you. May you be surrounded by love and warmth through this season.
The decision is mine. I can choose to trust and rest in the presence of God or I can choose to quake in fear in the presence of the enemy.
I am myself, Who alone has my best interests at heart? Who knows the beginning and the end of all I face? Who alone offers the peace that passes all understanding? Who will never leave me? Who keeps all His promises?
Quaking in fear, paralyzed by doubt, is choosing to sit with the enemy who seeks only to kill and destroy me. The enemy is all bluff and bluster for he has already been defeated. He flees at the sound of the softest whisper of the name
“Jesus.” Do not be afraid, dear ones. The enemy is all bark and no bite. Declare your allegiance to Jesus and dwell in the light of His presence. You stand on holy ground.
He came! ❤️
My marriage is crumbling; I am more scared than I have EVER been. Terrified, sad and terrified. This lesson on fear was what I needed to read today.
The New Testament readings today encourages us to find comfort in Christ by:
—Spending time alone to pray and renew ourselves in the Lord
—Spending time in worship of the Lord and who He is
—Meditating on God’s omnipotence (power over all), omniscience (knowledge of all things), and omnipresence (presence everywhere at all times)
—Trusting Him and walking out that trust in obedience
—Keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, not our circumstances
—Meditating on God’s love for His people and His presence with us
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I am praying for you! There is a lot of different things surrounding you but I am praying that the Lord will continue to be your light and salvation in ever moment of every day. And that you will be able to testify with the psalmist that you have seen the goodness of the lord in the land of the living. He intercedes for you too.
I’ve definitely been struggling with fear since my breakup. Fear I will never meet someone who checks all my boxes. Fear that I will be “alone” forever. Lots of fear and tears this past week. I’m so thankful for this reminder that fear is a liar and that “God isn’t irritated by my need for comfort and refuge.” It brought tears to my eyes because when I went to my ex for comfort, he rarely comforted me. I pray I draw close to God in this season and run to Him for comfort and trust Him that He’s working for my good and His glory. I pray that I will trust in His faithfulness to provide in whatever way that might look like. I hope everyone has a blessed Monday <3
Alisa, thank you for sharing. You will absolutely have a connection with your children. They shared your body and your blood! They were given to you by God. Whoever told you that a connection with your children was based on the birth was wrong. You are an incredible mother who gave life to her babies.
❤️
A great devo. Thank you. It reminded me of Gen 3 when fear first enters the stage: “I was afraid so I hid from your presence.” An ancient foe that bids us hide. So thankful God seeks us out and calls for us. Praying for us all this morning that we would listen and go to Him with our fears instead of hiding and trying to make it by ourselves. ♥️
Dear Lord please help me and all of these women push fear aside and find rest and peace in You and Your word. In a Jesus name, Amen.
Do not fear. Three small words, easy to repeat, difficult to put into practice, more so on some days than others. The first mention of fear that I know of is Genesis 3, after the fall of Adam & Eve. May I keep my eyes and ears focused on the Lord, trusting in Him.
Praying through each request – MARI, RHONDA J, GRAMSIESUE, CHURCHMOUSE, LEHUA K, VICKI KINGLOUCKS, VICTORIA E, KIMMEE AUXIER, NIKKI CARTER, SUE D, HEIDI, ALISA W, and others I may have missed in my notes.
Thinking about and praying for LYNNE FROM AL, MARTHA HIX, AMANDA NOBLE
KELLY (NEO) – Shannon’s mom has improved a little, still having to wear the defibrillator vest. Praying for healing or that her overall health improves for the surgery she needs. Thank you for remembering her!
Father cast out fear in our hearts and minds. Bring peace and healing in its place. In Jesus name, Amen
Fear tries so often to come after us, sometimes over the littlest things made big or difficult circumstances that are really big. Two years ago our world was turned upside down when the church my husband is on staff at went through a devastating time. This weekend I was reminded of God’s goodness and how far he has carried us. Fear was a huge part of that season for me. The what ifs, the countless nights of not knowing what life was going to look like for my family moving forward. I am so grateful that we kept our eyes on Jesus and he has continued to show my husband and I the way. He makes all things new in his perfect timing, we just have to keep saying yes to him even when we don’t feel like it.
I’m getting married in June and my future brother in law and his wife have made this engagement season rough for my fiancé and I. I am afraid of holding resentment for my future brother and sister in law due to some hurtful things they have said about me personally and my relationship with my fiancé. I would appreciate prayers for discernment about how to go forward in a healthy loving relationship with them.
I’m getting married in June and my future brother in law and his wife have made this engagement season rough for my fiancé and I. I am afraid of holding resentment for my future brother and sister in law due to some hurtful things they have said about me personally and my relationship with
I have been so fearful of all the situations going wrong my life. Lord help me not to have fear but to be in your presence
May I keep my eyes on the one in control
I just listened to a teaching called The End of Anxiety by R C Sproul on YouTube. It is hard on the text from Luke 12.. I tried to post with a link, but it said waiting moderation, so you may have to search for it! It’s less than 30 minutes. I hope this brings comfort!
“We’re prone to fear. When the curse of sin entered the world, so did fear. It casts a shadow on every aspect of our humanity. The security of eternal life and perfect love in God’s presence became uncertain. Being in fear’s grip is exhausting, and makes false prophets of us as we entertain endless what-ifs. Thankfully, fear will not have the last word.”
From HRT:
“[Refuse to] fear because we’re following the One who loves us and is in control through every possible situation we face. He’s already sealed the deal, so we don’t have to agonize over the outcome. He’s setting us free from worry, doubt, guilt, and shame.”
Fear is a liar. It rises when our trust in Gos’s goodness is doubted. LORD, help us to REMEMBER Your faithfulness in the past and that You do not change.
ALISA W – congratulations on the girls! How beautiful of the Lord to answer your prayers. Praying that your church family can rally around you to help meet your needs.
STEPHANIE BERLING – how is your neighbor Jim?
MIA FAITH – continuing to pray for your recovery
Yes and amen. Thank you
I just listened to a teaching called The End of Anxiety by R C Sproul on YouTube. It is hard on the text from Luke 12. Here is a link to listen. It’s less than 30 minutes. I hope this brings comfort! https://youtu.be/H0TIzpe0Og0
Fear will not have the last word!
@Alisa W I also had an emergency C section with my daughter 11 years ago and don’t worry about bonding with them, I have an amazing bond with my daughter. Praying for you and your family.
My niece had twins a month ago also but very small. A boy and a girl 4lb11oz and 3 lb 14 oz. Boy is on an apnea monitor and caffeine to control the apnea. God has blessed you both with these lives. He will be with you and not forsake you
Amen
ALISA W—Congratulations on your twin daughters! Obviously your “plate” is extremely full right now but our awesome God is completely aware of all that is going on! May He give you complete peace! I’m praying for you and your sweet family!
14 Wait for the Lord;
be strong, and let your heart take courage;
wait for the Lord! – Psalms 27:14
So good!
I am afraid so many things lately.
I had an emergency c section four weeks ago. Had to be put under general anesthetic and missed my daughters’ births (twins). I am afraid we won’t have a good connection since I was so out of it.
Recovery has been tough for me. I had three uncomplicated vaginal births before and now having a section has been a shock. Plus I think it’s extra tough recovering after twins (my twins were normal sizes… 6lbs 5 oz and 7 lbs 15 oz- I was very stretched out).
I live far from family, but thankfully my parents have been here. I am afraid what will happen after they leave- we only have a week left.
I am afraid I won’t be able to continue breastfeeding, homeschooling, feeding my whole family. I am afraid of living in a dump.
We have been a family of 5 stuck in a two bedroom apartment… and now we had twins! We can’t afford to buy anything and rent everywhere else is so much more expensive. This has been something I’ve prayed about for years, thought I knew where God was leading, and have been crushed by the answer. Our rent is getting raised in January, but it is still cheaper than anywhere else. Afraid we will be stuck under a landlord’s thumb forever.
I have been reading Psalm 27 recently, and here it shows up in the reading today. Just feel like I am totally in the dark about what God is doing.
I have to admit, as much as twins on top of everything was a total shock, I do feel totally blessed by them. I have three wonderful boys but have always wanted a daughter. We decided to try once more but I was sad if I did have a daughter, she wouldn’t have a sister. Well, she does as the twins are girls!
‘Fear and sin can only be banished by the presence of God..’
I am writing these words on my heart this morning. What Good News of great joy.
This is hope!
This is Hope indeed!
BUT GOD…
Right?
Thank you God that you came.
That you sent your Spirit to dwell in us, so we would know your perfect love that casts out fear..And brings Hope, Thank you Lord God, Thank you..
AMEN.
Happy Monday wrapped in warming love and hugs..❤
“So God came!” ❤️
Faith requires focus. Peter did not doubt whilst he had his eyes focussed on the Lord. Fear comes in when we focus on the situation rather than the One who has the victory. When doubts creep in…. focus on His very presence, when fears threaten to overcome us….. focus on the cross which releases us from their power.
Have a blessed Monday and may we all keep our eyes on Him, hallelujah xx
Amen ❤️❤️
He is eager to fill our fears and doubts! Also I loved the part that said, “Fear and sin can only be banished by the presence of God.”