“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Isaiah 41:10
I was not afraid to begin my first prison job decades ago even though it was in a men’s maximum-security correctional center. There were a few other women working at supervisory and management positions there. And previously, I had worked in a boys’ juvenile facility. So I felt confident. But because this job was a long distance from my home, I moved into a nearby apartment for part of the week.
On the first Sunday evening as I was moving my things into my new place, a young man and woman suddenly burst in. I was terrified, certain they planned to rob or assault me. As it turned out, the couple were frightened, too. Someone with a knife was chasing them!
There will be moments of intense fear and distress in life, but Jesus is there to strengthen and help us. I’m thankful that what happened to me did not turn out tragically. My life is in Jesus’ hands regardless of whether I panic or not. Sometimes there is hardly even time to pray! But we are asked to have faith that He will calm our fears in our time of need.



Scripture Focus

Matthew 8:23-27

Insight

Sometimes frightening incidents occur as they did to Jesus’ followers. But He is our shepherd and comforter, with us when we are terrified.

Bible In A Year

  • Leviticus 14
  • Psalm 53
  • Luke 17

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