Overcoming Fear With Faith

My godly mother, who prayed me into the kingdom, frequently used to say she was "worried sick" about this or that.

But here's the plain truth: worry is a sin! Over and over, the Bible commands, "Do not worry!" It doesn't do a bit of good, but it can certainly do harm -- like causing ulcers.

Jesus bluntly challenged His followers: "Don't worry about everyday life -- whether you have enough food, drink, and clothes. Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not. You have so little faith!" (Matthew 6:25b,27, 30b).

To illustrate His point, Jesus said, "Look at the birds. They don't need to plant or harvest because your heavenly Father feeds them" (Matt. 6:26a).

Have you ever seen a bird having a nervous breakdown? They don't worry because they know God will feed them. And remember, "You are far more valuable to Him than they are" (Matt. 6:26b).

Many worries stem from worldly desires. Television commercials create an insatiable demand for things we don't really need. Lust is wanting it now; trust is depending on God to provide.

Jesus said: "Why be like the pagans who are so deeply concerned about these things? Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs, and He will give you all you need from day to day if you live for Him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern" (Matt. 6:33-34).

When we walk closely with Jesus day by day, we find rest. But inner peace doesn't come if we run here and there, wasting time and chasing worldly things. The world can corrupt us with its troubles, making us scared. After all, good news doesn't sell newspapers! The devil wants to keep us on a treadmill with our nose to the grindstone, worrying about everything. But God says, "Fear not!"

As you face each day, don't miss the blessing -- it's Him! God loves you and knows your true needs, whether they be physical, social or financial. So come to Him in faith, give Him your burdens, seek His face, praise His name and He will supply!

Source: Pat Robertson (The 700 Club)