Setting Fear Aside

Some years back, we were driving home to British Columbia from our daughter's place in Alberta. Having headed out much later than planned due to a family emergency, my husband decided to stray onto an unfamiliar route.

This seemed like a good idea, until dusk started to settle in, and we realized that we did not have a clue as to our location or where we were headed. Nightfall was quickly surrounding us, and we were literally lost in penetrating darkness. I could see that my husband was getting very concerned and visibly worried. I was apprehensive for a while. However, I started focusing on God and how He had always promised us that He would never leave us nor forsake us. In my times of darkness, He has always been the light that shone for me and illuminated the way.

Psalm 27:1 – The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid? (NKJV)

Many times, I have relied on this psalm in hours of darkness when facing other challenges, and I still do. It is this reassurance that has helped me to cope. I know that when I forget the darkness and remember that He is there, I do not need to fear. You can rely on Him also.

As we proceeded, we nearly hit a huge animal which was on the road. I kept reassuring my husband that we were in God's hands and that there was nothing to worry about, because when we got to the end of that road, there would be a place to eat and rest. How did I know? I just had the feeling in my heart that God was with us on that journey.

All of a sudden, a flash of pure white glided across our windshield. When I realized that the bird had been a snowy owl, I recognized it as a sign from God that everything was going to be fine. Sure enough, when we reached the end of the road, there was a little restaurant, which served Greek food (my favourite), and a modest hotel where we could bed down for the night.

Whether or not we receive signs to remind us that God is present with us, we can be assured that His promise is still true that the Holy Spirit is always with us, and we are always in His presence. He assured Moses of His presence with him and his people.

Exodus 33:14 – And He said, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest." (NKJV)

How about you? In your travels through life, have you found yourself in a lost situation, having strayed from the path that God has set before you? Often, we grope in the darkness where there is no hope. Set aside the fear, as I did that night, and be assured that God will be with you. Do not fear!

Matthew 6:26-27 – Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow no reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? (NKJV)

Prayer: Father God, so many of us so often try to fix things ourselves and forget that we are not God. Help us, Father, to set aside our fears and place ourselves in Your hands. Thank You that we are loved and cared for even more than the birds of the air. Amen.

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