by Desiree Bustamante

No matter what awaits us, we can be courageous with Christ at our side.

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

“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.
    Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you.
    I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”
Isaiah 41:10 New Living Translation

Driving back home last Thanksgiving from our niece’s house was a little unnerving at times. There was a lot of black ice on sections of the highway, and we had some anxious moments anticipating how bad it might be up ahead of us. We were anxious and stressed out. We just wanted to get home safely.

There is a lot of fear in our world. Anxiety has become a stronghold and can paralyze us if we allow it to creep into any scary situation we are facing.

Really though, fear is nothing new. Jesus often told people to not be afraid. In Christ’s time the people were afraid of the Romans, of the judgmental Pharisees, of dying or suffering from disease. They were even fearful of Jesus’ power over nature, demons and death. There are many examples in Scripture of Jesus reassuring people to not be afraid. He had the power to take care of them.

Jesus still has that power today. Don’t let the world’s anxieties and fear cloud your view of the risen Christ and His victory over fear. You can be strong and courageous no matter what you face or what icy road you may travel. Christ will always be at your side, walking with you every step of the way because He loves you. He protects and provides you with His wisdom, courage, perseverance and peace.

 “’Don’t be afraid,” he said, “for you are very precious to God. Peace! Be encouraged!
Be strong!’” 
Daniel 10:19 New Living Translation

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church. Colorado Springs, Colorado