Fear Not: Trusting God in Uncertain Times
We don’t need much convincing to admit it—we are living in uncertain times. Globally, nationally, and personally, many of us are facing questions without clear answers. Health concerns, financial pressure, family struggles, career uncertainty, and anxiety about the future can all stir fear in our hearts.
In his recent message, “Fear Not: Trusting God in Uncertain Times,” Pastor Richard reminded us that fear is something every human being experiences—but it does not have to define or control us.
The central scripture for this message comes from Isaiah 41:10:
“Fear not, for I am with you;
be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.”
Fear Is a Natural Part of Being Human
Children fear the dark. Adults fear medical results, broken relationships, uncertain futures, job loss, or the choices their children are making. Students fear what comes after graduation. Even strong believers experience fear.
God does not scold us for being afraid. He anticipates it.
Scripture gives us honest examples of faithful people who felt fear:
Peter denied Jesus—not because he lacked love, but because he was afraid.
Jesus Himself, in the Garden of Gethsemane, prayed in deep anguish before the cross.
Fear is unavoidable. If you are human, you will experience it.
Feeling Fear vs. Embracing Fear
The second key truth from this message is crucial:
Even though fear is unavoidable, the decision to embrace fear is ours to make.
There is a difference between feeling fear and living in fear.
The Bible repeatedly acknowledges fear—then invites us not to cling to it:
“Do not be afraid” (Joseph, Matthew 1)
“Do not be afraid” (the women at the tomb, Matthew 28)
“Do not be afraid; just believe” (Jairus, Mark 5)
“Do not be afraid” (Simon Peter, Luke 5)
“Do not be afraid; keep on speaking” (Paul, Acts 18)
God never commands something He does not empower us to obey.
Why We Don’t Have to Embrace Fear
1. God Is With Us
When we are afraid, we are not alone. Like a child holding a trusted hand in the dark, our courage comes from knowing God is present.
2. God Is Our Strength
God doesn’t ask us to find strength within ourselves. He gives us His strength.
Even when He doesn’t remove the hardship, He promises to walk with us through it.
3. God Is Our Helper
God is our helper when the weight becomes too heavy—like a spotter stepping in at the exact moment we need help most.
4. God Will Uphold Us
He doesn’t just assist us temporarily—He upholds us with His victorious right hand.
Three Practical Ways to Respond to Fear
1. Pray
Fear thrives in silence. Prayer brings God into the situation.
And don’t stop praying once things feel better—many people stumble after the hardest part seems over.
2. Meditate on Scripture
Fear cannot be left unchallenged. It must be replaced with truth.
Read Scripture. Memorize it. Sit with it. Let God’s Word fill the space fear wants to occupy.
3. Stay in Fellowship
We were never meant to walk alone.
There are no “lone ranger” Christians. We need one another—to pray, to support, and to carry each other’s burdens.