Do Not Be Afraid Or Discouraged
Many people fight fear every day. They are afraid of other people. They are afraid of diseases and accidents. They are afraid that they will not be able to live up to the expectations others have for them. Still others, live in a constant fear of being attacked or having someone break into their home or office. These fears control their lives. Others are always discouraged. They are perpetual pessimists. They are always unsatisfied by their behavior or accomplishments. They think things will get worse instead of better, even though there is not reason to think that way. This causes them to be down and even depressed. Living in fear and discouragement is a terrible way to live. That is why God assures us as believers, that we are not be afraid or discouraged. (Jeremiah 46:21) When we belong to Him like Judah and Israel did in the Old Testament, He wants us to know that He will save us without fail. In fact, He will cause us to live in calm and quiet with no one to frighten us. How does that happen? Let's consider this important reality.
Nothing can happen to us, as Christians, that God doesn't allow to happen. When He allows it, even if it is bad, He is there for us to see us through. He allows it to make us stronger, not to hurt us. He commands us to trust Him, not ourselves. When we trust Him, He protects us from anyone or anything that will defeat us. He always causes all things to work together for good for us, as we love Him and follow Him. (Romans 8:28) Therefore, there is nothing to fear, so we must stop giving in to the temptation to be afraid. Instead, we should love Him and follow Him fully, and our fear will be cast out of us. We should realize He has a plan for us to learn and grow a little at a time, so we just need to follow Him and grow one step at a time. Therefore, we must put away being discouraged and keep following His plan, knowing He will get us to the destination at the right time. See what I mean? Let's not be afraid or be discouraged. Let's live in calm and quietness of soul like God desires for us to live.
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Tomorrow, I intend to read Jeremiah 47-49.