My friend and colleague wrote this a few years back and it seems even more relevant in today’s fearful climate. God does not want us to be afraid of each other. Instead we should be bold people of faith. Joshua 1:9 describes the attitude The Lord desires of us. “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.”  More to the point is this passage from Hebrews 13:5-6 “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” 6 So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Throughout the four Gospels Jesus and the angel Gabriel both bring the message repeatedly of “Do not be afraid…Peace be with you.” So why do we let media from all sides and big mouth talk show hosts get us all anxious? Clearly, God does not want us to be frightened of immigrants, other religions, conservatives, liberals, or people with different sexual preferences from us. My favorite Bible quote about fear is from I John 4:18, “ There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” So let us celebrate freedom joyfully and not be fooled into being afraid of each other. God shed your grace on us. Checkout these tips on calming our hearts:

Unhijack the American Mind

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