Throughout the pages of the Bible, the Lord makes it clear that He wants us to live our lives free from debilitating fear. He knows that fear weakens us and makes us easy targets for the forces of darkness. We simply can't live the abundant, victorious life that Jesus died for us to have if we are in bondage to our fears. Let me give you four good reasons why you should do all you can through the power of God's Spirit to resist becoming fearful.

First, God's love for us is complete and everlasting. Scripture says: "How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!" (1 John 3:1 NIV) When we receive Christ as our personal Savior and Lord, God adopts us into His very own family. As His precious children, we need no longer have the same fears that the rest of the world does. "You should not be like cowering, fearful slaves. You should behave instead like God's very own children, adopted into His family--calling Him 'Father, dear Father. ' And since we are His children, we will share His treasures--for everything God gives to His Son, Christ, is ours, too." (Romans 8:15,17 NLT) These "treasures" include the promises of God, which we can claim with confidence in every situation.

Second, God is with us wherever we go--He will never leave us or abandon us. Just yesterday, I had to drive myself a long distance for a doctor appointment that had me very concerned. When I took my fears to the Lord, He brought to my remembrance Joshua 1:9 (NLT): "I command you--be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." Just being reminded that God was going with me was enough to calm my unsettled emotions. Jesus said: "Be sure of this--that I am with you always, even to the end of the world." (Matthew 28:20 TLB) There isn't a moment in time when the Savior isn't present in our lives. Even when our circumstances seem out of control, He reassures us: "I will not abandon you or leave you as orphans in the storm--I will come to you." (John 14:18 TLB)

Thirdly, God has a plan and purpose for our lives. Scripture says: "For we are God's [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live]." (Ephesians 2:10 AMP) Long before we were even born, Almighty God mapped out plans and paths for us that would enable us to live "the good life" that was purchased for us on Calvary through Christ's work on the cross. As we walk in close fellowship with the Lord each day, we see those plans unfold like a beautiful flower, and it gives us the peace and confidence to live our lives unafraid.

Lastly, God is committed to caring for us and watching over us. Scripture says: "We know [absolutely] that anyone born of God does not [deliberately and knowingly] practice committing sin, but the One Who was begotten of God carefully watches over and protects him [Christ's divine presence within him preserves him against the evil], and the wicked one does not lay hold (get a grip) on him or touch [him]." (1 John 5:18 AMP) Through Christ's indwelling Spirit, we have the power to resist sin and disobedience, and to literally shut the door on Satan and his evil forces, greatly minimizing their influence over our lives. As a result, we save ourselves a lot of heartache and misery, and we give ourselves fewer reasons to be afraid. Whatever you are facing today, let me encourage you to cast all your cares--"all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all on [the Lord], for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully." (1 Peter 5:7 AMP)

Prayer: Lord, whenever I am tempted to fear, remind me that You love me with a perfect love, and that You are always near. Help me to grow strong in spirit by devoting myself to prayer, praise, and study of Your Word. Thank You that as I follow You closely, I will experience the great and glorious plans You have in store for me.