Did you know that “Fear Not!” is recorded 365 times in the Bible? I’ve read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, yet was not aware of this fact. It came to my attention while reading an article written by a Bible scholar. Now I’m sharing it with you.
God clearly does not want His children to be fearful of anything or anyone. The Bible teaches that we are to have reverent fear of God. Reverent fear means to have respect for God and all that He is.
Fear never comes from God. 2 Timothy 1:7 tell us, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, and love, and self-control.” When we accept Jesus into our hearts and receive salvation; we’re given all that He has; and fear is not in the list.
Yet; there are time we become fearful. Fear can rear its ugly head when we least expect it. I like the acronym a well-known TV evangelist gave for fear: False Evidence Appearing Real. What can we do when we become afraid? The Bible is the best source of help available.
I chose the Scripture image for Isaiah 41:10. It’s one of my favorite verses. Let’s read it together.
Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, Yes, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
Wow; God explains why we’re not to fear. For example:.
There’s no need to fear. Why? God said, “I am with you.”
There’s no need to be dismayed. Why? God said, “I am your God.”
There’s no need to ever feel weak. Why? God said, “I will give you strength.”
There’s no need to believe no one will help. Why? God said, “I will help you.”
There’s no need to be afraid of anything. Why? God said, “I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
We are living in trying times. Chaos is all around us. The world we live is in a mess. Yet; God wants us to put complete trust in Him. We wants us to live in peace, and most importantly, to fear not. How incredible is it that Fear Not! is repeated 365 times in the Bible!? God is so good; He’s helping us to obey His commandment. He loves us that much! Don’t be surprised when you read your Bible, the words “Fear not” will jump out at you. God has His ways for getting our attention. I know He does mine.
I’ll end the post with three verses where the Lord said, “Do not fear!”
Lamentations 3:57
You drew near on the day I called on You, and You said, “Do not fear!”
Isaiah 43:2-5
Do not fear, for I am redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine. When you pass through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame kindle on you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
Isaiah 43:5
Do not fear, for I am with you;
Yes; countless things can cause us to fear. God’s command to “Fear not!” is meant for our good. He is our constant help in times of trouble. He will never leave or abandon us, and is the Source of everything needed in this life. All we have to do is call upon His Name. Thank you, Lord, we give thanks and praise Your Holy Name!