Fear Not

I recently joined a Facebook group that lets our community/county know when (and why) 911 has been called in the area. I’m telling you what, after seeing all the crime that takes place in our safe neck of the woods, it makes me want to stay in and never leave! Like, who wants to go out when you know what just took place in town? It could’ve been me that was robbed, hit by a drunk driver, or attacked in that parking lot. I mean, God did give me a brain for a reason.

The posts about carjackings, road rage, and people caught trying to break in to homes and cars are almost enough to make the calmest person suffer from anxiety. Don’t get me wrong, I knew our community wasn’t perfect, however, I didn’t have a clue that some of that was happening near me — and so often.

Overreacting, you say? Maybe, or perhaps I’m seeing the reality that bad things happen around me every day.

I can’t help but compare this to the news we have listened to for the past two years and how it has caused many to be afraid to step out of their home. Some people are living on the cautious side, however, some are terrified.

In the Bible we learn this:  The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10

Do you see a revelation here? It’s time we let our faith in Jesus guide us – not our fears. It’s a good idea to be cautious and use your common sense during a pandemic and in a world that has shootings and other horrific crimes – yes. However, while people are staying in and staying safe — the thief is tearing apart families, marriages. schools, churches, and communities. I don’t have to read about it – I’m watching it with my very own eyes!

The following is so powerful. There’s no doubt these are words of wisdom that we all need today…

Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

Won’t you join me in praying for our community? For yours? For the family unit. For those relationships that have been torn apart. Pray for the people who are living in fear. It’s time we let them know that we’re here for them and that God is still on the throne.