FEAR NOT

For God hath not given us

the spirit of fear, but of power,

and of love, and of a sound

mind.

II Timothy 1:7

Our culture today is soaked in fear.  In my years of life and in looking back over most of 87 years I can remember, these days are riddled with fear.  It is fed to us on an almost daily basis.  In my younger days, we didn't have all of the media influences we have now.  

We've always known war of some sort.  We can recall any number of military events our country has been involved in.  Right now, the war we're coming to know is not military as it was then.  The wars we face now are and will always be an issue because we don't stop to think that Satan is the author and encourager of fear.   The fear he doles out isn't necessarily military.

Lately, we are seeing war in the streets of some kind in our major cities.  Rioters are being paid to do just that...riot and cause mass disorder.  It's hard to watch on newscasts all of the turmoil that seemingly can't be controlled.  That's a big example of the fearmongering that is going on.

It's also interesting, coming down to some very simple examples, the fear we are faced with just in advertisements on our computers or TV screens.  Advertisements used to be informative even though they were still irritating.  However, many ads now have to have an added message to them...a message of fear.  The message is if you purchase a particular thing be it food, medicines or even cars, you are in the depths of danger.  We are cautioned of eating or drinking various products that have been found dangerous but all will be well if we purchase the advertisers product.  Medical products are advertised using fear tactics be it aspirin or support socks.  We are bombarded with fear.

Again, Satan is on the job, full time.  He wants us to live in fear because he knows how from just a little seed of fear, it will grow, crippling us in so many ways.  If we become fearful because of things we see or read, fear can become very entrenched in our lives.  God wants to be our peace.  He can outdo Satan on any level if we let Him do that.  Satan gives fear while God gives power, love and sanity.  I'll take what God has to offer any old day.

Dear Father God, help me to stay focused on You knowing what an encourager in truth You are.  You'll never lie to us or lead us into the depths of fear.  May we cling to the promises of Your Word that assures us of Your presence and love.  In Jesus' precious name...Amen