Fearless

Jeremiah 23:3-6

I will place shepherds over them who will tend them, and they will no longer be afraid or terrified, nor will any be missing. (Jer. 23:4)

MANDI WAS AFRAID, but her husband, Brannon, was terrified. Mandi had passed out and Brannon was unable to wake her up. Mandi, Brannon, and their three-year-old son, Joseph, were violently ill with the flu. But their sixteen-month-old son was oblivious. Even when the ambulance came to take them to the hospital, Carston just giggled and smiled as the paramedics rushed about. He wasn't afraid. In Jeremiah 23, God promised the Israelites they wouldn't be afraid anymore. Wicked men had lied to the people and scattered them instead of caring for them. In response, God said He would put people in place to care for the Israelites, shepherds to tend to them so that they wouldn't be afraid or terrified. Wouldn't it be wonderful to be like little Carston, surrounded by turmoil yet unafraid? We're human, so most likely we're going to be afraid and terrified at some point. But we can remember this: The same God who took care of the Israelites in the midst of their turmoil takes care of us today. God provided men (shepherds) to care for the Israelites. God has provided us with the Holy Spirit. In your moments of fear and trepidation, allow God to take the reins of your emotions. He has the game plan. He knows the path. The Holy Spirit is with you to guide and comfort you in the midst of the turmoil.

Tami Stevenson

Next time you feel afraid, call out to God and allow Him to comfort you.