WHY SHOULD I BE AFRAID?

 

Ps. 27:1  The LORD is my light and salvation---so why should I be afraid?  The LORD protects me from danger---so why should I tremble?

     We fear the unknown.  When we don't know what to expect and there is a sense that it might cause us harm, we begin to get afraid.  Fear can cripple us to the point that we don't do anything.  It can also protect us so that we don't do something that would harm or endanger us.

     We learn to respect that which we fear.  We understand the danger to us if we don't and become cautious.  We stay alert so we don't put ourselves in harm's way.  We do all we can do to keep as safe as possible.  Fear protects us by keeping us alert and ready for whatever may be before us.

     A healthy relationship with God instills in us a fear of Him.  To fear the Lord involves a reverence and respect for Him.  We acknowledge who God is and humble ourselves before Him.  We don't take lightly God's holiness and justice.  We don't take lightly our need to present ourselves to Him with pure hearts.  We don't take lightly the fact that God holds us accountable for our sins.  We don't minimize our constant need for Him.

     In Christ we are no longer afraid of our standing with God because He is our light and salvation.  We no longer fear God's wrath because we know we can trust Christ to protect us as we draw near to God.  We understand that there is great danger to our souls away from Him so we stay as close to Him as we possibly can. 

     If fear grips your soul, turn to Jesus and wait before Him.  Abide in Him.  Let Him light your path and protect you.  Perfect love, Christ's love, casts out every fear.