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Over the past week “not afraid” has been coming up over and over again from various sources. I would like to share a few more thoughts that I have been meditating on in relation to this subject, even though I have written on it before.
A heart fixed on God in trouble:
–not afraid in distress
“He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the LORD.” Psalm 112:7
Why shouldn’t I be afraid?
- I’m in His hand – all is in His control (John 10:29)
A mind stayed on God in turmoil:
–not anxious over danger
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusteth in Thee. ” Isaiah 26:3
Why shouldn’t I be anxious?
- I’m on His heart – in His care: My cares are His cares when I cast them on Him.
- Philippians 4:6-7 ESV “do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. “
A heart set on Christ in temptation:
–not affected by departure
“Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” Colossians 3:2
Why shouldn’t I be affected?
- “For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” (v3)
Eyes directed in tribulation:
–not altered in dependence
“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:2
Why shouldn’t I be altered in my dependence on God?
- “Fear not… I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.” Genesis 15:1
- “But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.” Luke 12:7
- “I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me” Psalm 23:4
In the grand scheme of things, what really matters? Either I shall have His presence here, or I will be in His presence there. What Blessed Assurance.
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About 6 years ago a girl of 14 was imprisoned for a month in Vietnam for telling others about the Lord Jesus. While there, one of the things they did to try to get her to deny her faith was forcing her to raise her arms and stand on nails and for 15 minutes. She fainted from the pain. After finally being released, she continues to share the gospel, saying, “Don’t be afraid. Believe in the Lord, then you will receive peace.” She related that she was thankful for her prison experience, and that afterward it was as though her life was made new again– it made her strong and bold in the Word of God. What a lesson from a girl of 14! (Voice of the Martyrs)
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