18 OCT 23 Wednesday: A Closer Walk Devotional
“Don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only god, who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” Matt. 10:28
Fear is one of the most common emotions that can dominate our thoughts. God knows us intimately and gives us the wisdom to get through life’s most difficult moments. There are 365 verses in the Bible that say “Fear not” or “Don’t be afraid”. There is a verse for every day of the year because he knows each day brings worry and fear. God’s people do have things that can make us afraid.
Jesus told his followers that they could be mocked, rejected, insulted, persecuted, beaten, jailed, tortured, and killed for proclaiming the name of Jesus. Unbelievers have all the fears common to man, plus the fear of death, and fear of standing before a holy God as they give an account for their lives. Jesus sets us free from the fear of death, judgment, and the things we will face as we live out this adventure.
Jesus says there is only One whom you should fear, God. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. God is the only one who can destroy your body and your soul in hell. God is sovereign and knows every step you take, the hairs on your head, when you die, how you die, and if you belong to him. When you turn from your sin (repentance) and follow Jesus, you are entrusting your life to God. From that moment on, you are learning each day to trust in the Lord with all of your heart.
As you trust Him, especially during difficult times, he will extend to more of His Spirit to give peace beyond all understanding, to have joy and even power to press through it. God gives us disciplines and insight that can help assist us in gaining victory over fear such as prayer, his word, meditation, fasting, community, and purpose. You can build emotional and spiritual resilience with God’s help.
Do you struggle with fear?
Reading Plan: Psalm 119:1-24; Jer. 37:3-21; 1 Cor. 14:13-25; Matt. 10:24-33
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