Peace, not fear – Day 12

Spend much time on social media, watching TV or listening to the news and fear will ensue.  It is almost inevitable.  There are crimes and wars and injustices.  There are conspiracy theories and folks who thrive on bringing fear to others.  Some will create fear to gain power or control.  And still others will grasp onto anything because something seems better than nothing.  Bad news travels fast.  It captures people’s attention.  It sells ads and makes others money.  Our world is filled with people fearing something – or everything.  

With all of this, maybe we go back to the truth.  Truth is something we almost never hear or read or experience.  Stories are one sided.  Angles are presented to sell the story.  Perspectives are skewed.  Here are truths to cling to, especially when all seems full of fear:

God has not given us a spirit of fear.  He has given us peace.  Jesus told his disciples (and us) that he was giving peace.  He was giving a peace unlike the world could offer.  This means we can have peace even in fear.  We have not been given a spirit of fear and we do not have to live this way.

Plus, the Bible is full of reminders, from the beginning to the end, to not fear.  Do not fear is one of the most prevalent commands.  It is still true for us today.  In addition to having peace rather than a spirit of fear, we are also told not to fear because God is with us.  The Christmas story is about Emmanuel, God with us.  

So maybe we turn off the noise today and listen to the Good News.  God is with us.  He brings peace, unlike this world.  And he gives rest for our weary and fearful souls.  

Matthew 11 ²⁸ ‘Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. ²⁹ Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.