Do Not Be Afraid

I was just sharing with a friend the past Sunday about how God in the Bible always tell His people “Do Not Be Afraid”.

A quick search on bible gateway, depending on the version you’re reading, will reveal there are many instances God told His people not to be afraid when faced with persecution or uncertainty.

But here’s the interesting thing - how do you not be afraid?

If you tell me, do not be afraid, but there’s a roach in my bed - I’d for sure run away screaming and crying. It’s just human instinct. How do you not be afraid when there is something terrifying in front of you?!

Fear is a human reaction, it protects us from danger or harm. 

So what is God asking us to do here? These men and women in history were facing very real danger - war, famine, death, and so much more. God asked them to do many things, but on top of those things, do not be afraid.

In 2 Chronicles 20, God answered the distress prayer from His people. This was His instruction - v15

“ Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.”, 

and v17

“You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.”

God gave His people victory in the most unexpected way. Highly recommend you read 2 Chronicles 20 if you haven’t already.

I’m sure God could have done the miracle without human, but He wanted us to know His character and trust Him. He asked us to v17 take up our position and stand firm. See His deliverance. 

I’m sure some battles in our lives we brought on ourselves, but it doesn’t mean we couldn’t invite God into our situations. 

So how to you not be afraid?

There are still so many things I am scared of, or gives me anxiety. 

I think through the many things that had happened to me the past few years, I’ve gradually learned to be less afraid.

V17 

“Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged … (for) the Lord will be with you.”

For example, when there is spiritual warfare, I now acknowledge it is happening, quiet myself and start praying. I’m still bit anxious, but maybe compare to last year, I’m 2% less anxious lol.

It’s part of the sanctification process, and I’m happy I’m learning to be less afraid than before. I hope one day, I’d be able to do this well - 

“Do not be afraid” because “the Lord will be with you.”