Scripture for the week of July 18, 2021

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

Have you ever been paralyzed by an overwhelming fear that seems to shatter all hope and scatter all your faith? Fear is the friend of doubt and unbelief and the robber of our faith. The KJV Bible mentions “fear not”, “do not fear” and “do not be afraid” 110 times and it is usually followed by exhortations declaring that the Lord is with you. God makes five promises in this scripture: 1) He is with you. 2) He is your God. 3) He gives strength to replace your weariness. 4) He will help you. 5) He will hold you up in the power of His righteousness. So, let’s trust the power of His presence, strength and righteousness to overcome all our fears of failure and inadequacy that try to overwhelm us. May our hope be renewed and faith strengthened in these assurances of God’s steadfast love, goodness and provision for us today. Amen!

JoBeth Kested