Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. (NIV)  Isaiah 41:10

Life presents several joyous moments as well as challenging times. As Christians, our only refuge in times of difficulty is God (Psalm 18:2). God has promised on several occasions in scriptures to be with us and fight our battles for us. The truth is that, there is that constant battle of the wills – spirit and the flesh. And when we sincerely want to trust God for His promises, we are found wallowing in fears, discouragement and doubts. These are the tools of the devil which cripple us down and blind us of the strength, help and victory that awaits us. It is therefore our focus that this devotional message would be a reference point for self-examination and action.

In our tough moments God whispers “Do not be afraid”. This phrase “Do not be afraid” or “fear not” occurs some 365 times in the Bible reflecting His daily assurance of His care. Indeed God’s steadfast love and mercies are renewed every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). For instance, Deuteronomy 31:8 reads “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged”. Despite these comforting words to our spirits, our flesh sometimes bows in fear and trembles.

The promises of God are based on our personal relationship with him – “…for I am your God...” Many of us easily forget that father-child relationship we have with God or we might have broken this relationship. There may be others who have not yet established this relationship. What kind of relationship do we have with God?

In place of our fears, discouragement and doubts, God gives strength, help, uplifting and above all, victory! In this regard Paul reminds Timothy that God gives us power, love and sound mind and not fear (2 Timothy 1:7). Let us stretch forth our hands to God in prayer and he will lift us up, give us strength and help us unto victory. With God, you are a victor!

Prayer: Down on my knees, you said again in Joshua 1:9: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go”. Where are you my God as I walk where I do not know? I ask myself what I should do. I will trust in you my God. Stay with me Lord, for this is your battle (2 Chronicles 20:15b). Give me the peace and the assurance that my faith is in you alone. Write your story in my life.

And so I say with the psalmists (Psalm 4:8) “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety”. And “I will praise the Lord who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I shall not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure” (Psalm 16:7-9) in Jesus name Amen.

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