Are you aware what the command of God most often found in the Bible is? It is not one of the 10 commandments. It is not love one another, although very important. It is… “Feat not!” Why would God be so concerned about us not fearing? Let us take an illustration to answer this excellent question. Imagine a daddy in a swimming pool encouraging with open arms his youngest son to jump in the pool. That little boy has a big dilemma that will affect future decisions. He is confronted with the choice of not jumping in the pool. Isn’t this humongous pool dangerous to little people like him? Didn’t his dad tell him to be careful around pools? Jumping would mean a humongous risk. He could drown! And what is the usefulness of jumping into that water, anyway? He can’t even swim! No. Jumping is way too risky! But on the other hand, his dad has always been trustworthy. He has never disappointed him once. And his dad wants him so much to jump into his open arms. What choice should he make? Fear is gripping him. What should he do? Should he play it safe and not jump? Or should he conquer his fear, trust his dad, and jump? The choice he makes will alter his future decisions and possibly his entire life. If he does not jump into the pool, he will miss a unique experience with his dad who will gladly catch him in his arms, and prove him that he is trustworthy. Quite possibly, he will be possibly to run to his dad when trouble arises in the future. But if he jumps, he will know beyond a doubt that no matter what arises, he can always run to his dad and his dad will always be there for him. He can trust his dad! Isa 41:10 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” NIV Isa 41:13 “For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.” NIV Fear cripples us from knowing God more intimately. It refrains us from hearing God’s voice and answering His invitation. Have you noticed that every time God encourages people in the Bible not to fear, He leads them into frightening experiences? But no matter what, they always come through victoriously! Why? Because God was with them. They really had nothing to fear! Is there some fear holding you back from doing a task God has planned for you? Prayerfully consider this question. May I encourage to step out in faith and know that God has His arms wide open to catch you. Will you jump into His arms? You have already stepped out in faith and jumped in His arms when you joined this ministry. What a great addition you are. you have blessed so many people already. God is really trustworthy. Let us continue to jump together in His arms.
In His love,
Rob Chaffart
Answers2Prayer Ministries, www.Answers2Prayer.org