happy_new_year_2014_1264011507Fear –  to expect or worry about (something bad or unpleasant); to be afraid or apprehensive. This is not a positive way to start 2014 right?  But, as I think about the coming year there are some things I am fearful about.  My husband is having some major surgery, we are buying a new house ( this is also a source of great joy) and the world. So what do I do?   I know that fear is not of the Lord;  He tells us “Fear Not”  just like He proclaimed to the shepherds watching over their flocks by night.  So how does that look in my life?  I want to hold fast to what I do know and let go of what I don’t know.  

God’ s Word says:

He will protect:  Genesis 15:1  Afterward the Lord spoke to Abram in a vision and said to him, “Do not be afraid, Abram, for I will protect you, and your reward will be great.”

He will not forget us:  Genesis 46:3  “I am God,” the voice said, the God of your father”.  Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will see to it that you become a great nation there.

We should fear God:  Psalm 25:12  Who are those who fear the Lord? He will show them the path they should choose.

We do not need to fear:  Psalm 27:1  The Lord is my light and my salvation – so why should I be afraid? The Lord protects me from danger – so why should I tremble?

God strengthens us:  Psalm 46:1  God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.

We do not need to fear darkness or violence:  Psalm 91:5  Do not be afraid of the terrors of the night, nor fear the dangers of the day.

We do not need to fear bad news:  Psalm 112.7  They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the Lord to care for them.

Love drives fear away:  1 John 4:18-19  Such love has no fear because perfect love expels all fear.  If we are afraid, it is for fear of judgment, and this shows that His love has not been perfected in us.  We love each other as a result of His loving us first.

Faith drives fear away:  Matthew 8:26  And Jesus answered,  “Why are you afraid? You have so little faith!” Then He stood up and rebuked the wind and waves.

God’s power in us drives fear away:  1 Timothy 1:7  For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.

So in 2014 when I feel fear creeping in I am going to stop and remember what God says.  I am going to trust God to help me live in His spirit of power, love and self-discipline.  My new years resolution:  To take to heart what God’s says about how we should love each other as a result of His loving us first.  So I am going to intentionally be more involved in the people I care about and not be so self-absorbed. To really tap into the power of prayer for those I love.  What about you?  Will you let God’s word guide you in 2014. Will you have a reverent fear for the Lord and allow Him to direct your path?  With love and not fear God can do mighty things in our lives to bring Glory to Him and Joy to us.

No Fear in 2014  Letting God’s Love cast out all fear!!!

You were prayed for today.

 Joy Always, Cissy

 I would love to hear what is causing you to be fearful and your New Years Resolutions.  Please leave me a comment.