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Psalm 27:1 – The Lord is my light and my salvation — so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble? (NLT)
I dropped the pan on the floor and was rewarded with a loud scream.
When our son was an infant, I was concerned that his hearing had been affected by ear infections. Rather than take him to the pediatrician, I decided to perform a home test. As my wife sat at the kitchen table with him cuddled in her arms, I dropped a heavy pan. His screams reassured us that his hearing was okay.
Humans are born with two innate fears: falling and loud noises. I saw the second in my son; I witnessed the first in my grandson. After he started walking, I noticed that he hesitated when approaching a ledge or when he got too close to the edge of a chair or the couch. I didn't have to say, "Watch out; you'll fall." He naturally knew that something was different.
I'm sure that David was frightened by many things, but he had the sense to know that he shouldn't be. God saved him from lions, bears, enemies, and a jealous king. He gave light to his path and was like a protective wall.
If I was born with only two fears, I've accumulated a ton more: fear of those who can harm me physically, fear of financial failure, fear of relationship demise, fear of not being loved, fear of emotional abuse, fear of unemployment, fear of depleted retirement savings. But I'm reminded of what Paul told Timothy: "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV)
Fears seem to come naturally in my human experience, but if I'm created with only two, they shouldn't. As with David, experience should teach me that I can depend on God for salvation and protection. He has saved me from the greatest fear that I could ever have: having to spend an eternity apart from Him to pay for my sins. Even if my life were taken by others, my soul would be secure.
I can also depend on Him to guard my steps daily. I may incur sicknesses — even life-threatening diseases — but He provides ultimate protection. Since the imperishable part of me is safe in His arms, I can live without fearing the other things that assault me during my life's journey.
Don't live with a spirit of fear, when God says, "Fear not."
Prayer: Father, we thank You for allowing us to live life free of fear. Amen.
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Tuesday, December 3, 2024 – In Canada — Pray for those in small or rural churches, many of whom are struggling without adequate leaders or funds to minister to their communities. Give them faith and courage to reach out to neighbours and those who are not involved in worship and fellowship. Pray for their dependence on God to grow as they trust him for guidance and provision.
Prayer for Pastor Kristen: "Update December 2, 2024: Kirsten is not doing well. She will probably need to go on disability. She..." 
Thank you, Martin, for this encouragement to face our fears and rely on God.
Thank you, Martin, for sharing this devotional with us. Yes, let’s focus on Christ and not looming difficulties. Blessings.
Wow, this one I am printing out to read again and again! I so needed to hear these words today and often. Thank you and be blessed.
Thank you, Martin, for the wonderful reassurance. Even though we know there is no need to be afraid it is so good to be reminded. Thanks again.
Thank you, Martin, for this devotional. Sometimes we do let fear cripple us until we remember who we serve!!!
God bless.
Dear Martin,
What assurance we get from your writing today. I feel strengthened as I begin my day thinking about God’s words, “Fear not.”
Good morning Martin,
Many thanks for this devotional giving much encouragement and reassurance of the Lord’s devotion to us as believers. We do serve an awesome God!
Blessings for your very meaningful devotionals.
(B.C.)
Thanks Martin. I know l shudder with fear at the thought of the full blast of loud music (noise) on outdoor speakers that we have to deal with at all hours of the day of night from our new neighbour! Who also believes it is her right to do such things whenever she feels like it. Heaven looks better all the time.
Blessings.
Really need this today.
Dear Martin Wiles,
Thank you for the “Fear not” devotional.
Keep writing.