We walk in a world eager to snatch our souls, a world fallen and against us. Yet, in this world, Christians shine as the salt of the earth, the light piercing the darkness. We stand as a family, united at the edge of the abyss. Our strength is not our own. It flows from the One we belong to. With this strength, we reach out, casting life preservers to the drowning, even as we battle to keep our own heads above water. This strength, this resolve, is born partly of fear.
Fear is natural. Fear serves a purpose. It warns us of danger. But remember this: fear can also destroy. Picture a farmer planting seeds. Fearful they won't sprout, she digs them up to check. Again and again, she digs. In her worry, she ruins the harvest. Only a fool lacks fear, but letting fear ruin what you've sown is folly too.
Do not let others wield your fear as a weapon against you. They might say, "If you truly trusted God, you'd have no fear. Your fear proves there's no God, and you're lying to yourself." These are the whispers of the lost, those who would turn your heart from God. But take heart: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (Proverbs 9:10). If you feel fear, you are on the path toward wisdom.
Use your fear wisely. Let it remind you of the dangers around you. We are all in peril, but you hold a lifeline, a life preserver in Christ. Be wise, my friend. A healthy fear builds up, it does not tear down. It sustains life, both physical and spiritual.
The Word Behind This
Fear, rightly placed, is a teacher. It tells us where not to tread, where to seek refuge. It keeps us vigilant, keeps us alive. Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom because it draws us closer to Him, the source of all understanding. In that fear is a reverence, a respect, a recognition of His power and love.
So, when fear grips you, remember the ground where you've planted your seeds. Trust in the soil of faith. Let fear guide you to deeper trust, to firmer faith. The Lord is your refuge. In His wisdom, you will find peace.