FEAR v FAITH
09th Jun 2021
Here in UK we are all waiting with baited breathe to know when the Covid restrictions will be lifted and we can begin to return to normal life, at last. The vaccination programme has gone well and the numbers in hospital and those dying are diminishing steadily.
This is all very good news, but the amount of fear that is overshadowing so many is alarming. In fact I have been surprised to find many believers very fearful and not wanting to be in contact with others.
Faith is a lifestyle and not something we bring into action at a time of crisis. Paul noticed that his son in the faith Timothy was displaying fear and he corrected him with these words, “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
In Isaiah 7 we read how God’s people were being threatened by powerful enemies and in great fear. Isaiah was given a message for them from the Lord, “It will not take place, it will not happen…..” then some words of explanation which conclude, “If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all.”
Joyce and I have lived through this pandemic with perfect peace. We received words from the Lord right at the beginning from Exodus, about when the destroying angel was to pass over Egypt, those with the blood on the lintel and side posts were safe. We have placed the blood over our lives, family and our home.
We have sought to be obedient and brought our lives into line with all the restrictions and regulations that have been in force. We have not seen our family and friends as we would have wanted. However, our faith has not been in obeying the rules, but has been in God who keeps us free from fear.
As believers we are loved and cared for by God. 1 John 4:18 says, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out all fear.” I am not minimising the threat we have all lived with, but we have the birthright, and should be people who live in peace, and know that are lives are in God’s hands.
by Charles Sibthorpe
