We are in challenging times . . . like people who came before us. I think of the civil war, the Spanish flu, World War II. The Bible records times when fear hung over the people of Israel. Currently I am studying the book of Ezra.
After 70 years of captivity in Babylon, Zerrubabel led a return to the land of Israel to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. Ezra 3:3 records: They set the altar in its place, for fear was on them because of the peoples of the lands, and they offered burnt offerings on it to the Lord, burnt offerings morning and evening. When fear grips us we need to turn to the Lord.
I am reminded of God’s words to Joshua. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
We can trust in God as we make changes in our daily life, as our circumstances change. God’s word is rich with promises and examples of God’s faithfulness.
Your hands have made me; give me understanding that I may learn your commandments.
Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice, because I have hoped in your word.
I know, O Lord, that your rules are righteous, and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me.
Let your steadfast love comfort me according to your promise to your servant. Psalm 119:73-76
On St. Patricks day I listened to the press conferences on the growing pandemic. I spent time on the computer gathering information. It made me weary and stressed. I was glad to receive notification of an evening hymn sing that Keith and Kristen Getty provided on their facebook page. Their concerts have been canceled, but they sang hymns from their home, and it warmed my heart. You can find it here.
Spring is coming. God is faithful. We don’t need to fear tomorrow.
This post is shared with the Five Minute Friday writing community. Today’s prompt is: TOMORROW
Yes, we need to fix our eyes on God so that we don’t give in to fear! I love that the Gettys sang hymns from their house. People are responding to this in so many creative ways. I’m grateful for the technology that allows this to happen.
I don’t fear the coming dawn,
don’t fear what lies ahead;
I’ve Someone to depend upon,
when all the lights go red.
Yes, it seems that I will die
much sooner than I’d planned.
I don’t know the reason why,
nor need to understand,
for this is part of the plan,
the gold and silver tapestry
that came to be when saving Man
became part of the mystery
attending His Creation’s birth,
and what, to Him, we’re truly worth.