You’ve probably heard Franklin Roosevelt’s quote, “Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the assessment that something else is more important than fear.”
Proper motivation is certainly an effective tactic for overcoming fear. But as I read my Bible, I want to offer a different approach.
Courage is found not in the absence of fear, but in the fear of God—revering him for who he is. Knowledge of God’s power and love makes no space for fear to rule us. When we know that God is victorious over anything we face, and that he also loves us and wants good for us, we can be at peace.
That diagnosis you’re waiting on? God is with you in the waiting room.
That child you’re worried about? God pursues them at school, work, and beyond.
That secret sin you’re struggling with? God sees and knows, and waits to help you.
Does his presence give you courage?
Joshua 1:9 says, “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.’”
The reason we can have courage is that the all-powerful, all-loving God is with us wherever we go. Christmas is a time to celebrate just that: God with us, in the form of Jesus. The Bible names Jesus “Immanuel” meaning “God with us.”
So as you face the busyness (or even sorrow) of the holiday season, have courage because Jesus came to be with us and the Holy Spirit is in us. And as you face the questions, worries, and unknowns of a new year approaching, know that God will be with you there, too.
Lord Jesus, thank you for coming to earth and giving yourself up for me. Thank you for the people in my life who told me about you. Please show me your presence through the people and situations around me today. Amen.
Throughout this day: Let this worship song remind you that God is with us, Immanuel.
God With Us (Lyric Video) - All Sons & Daughters Official
Photo Credit: Stein Egil Liland