by Jordyn van Gaalen

Hold Tight

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this SoundCloud link.

I have a fear problem. 

I am easily startled. I have a vivid imagination. My mind can get carried away and I find myself needing to reel in my thoughts from the crazy “What Ifs.” I am cautious of what I see and watch because I enjoy camping deep in the woods and would like to keep that hobby without DateLine reruns popping into my head as I fall asleep.

I consistently pray for courage and bravery and boldness. 

It is encouraging that God speaks on fear so often. It also lends the notion that I am not alone when it comes to fearing various aspects of life. I am thankful to not be alone in this ongoing struggle. 

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9 NIV

 

“But now, this is what the LORD says— he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: ‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.’”
Isaiah 43:1 NIV

 

“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?”
Psalm 27:1 NIV

I used to pray that fear (more along the lines of irrational or imagination getting carried away spectrum) would be removed from my emotions. But God so often speaks directly to fear, that I have instead turned directly toward God in those moments. I focus on facing the situation knowing the presence of the Holy Spirit is near, knowing that the Word of God is a double edged sword, and knowing Jesus has conquered all that I would ever have to fear. 

Face today with courage and bravery and boldness, both in the daily circumstances and in those scenarios that lead us out of our comfort zones. Be strong and courageous. Hold tight to the Holy Spirit’s comfort, the Word of God’s armor, and our Savior Jesus who conquered fear, death, and every evil.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado