Listen to today’s devo!

The remnant of Israel . . . will eat and lie down and no one will make them afraid. (Zeph. 3:12–13)

It was the middle of the night. I was feeding my baby, but anxiety filled my entire being. I did not want to move from the home we loved and start over in a rental home in a community where we knew no one. Fears and loneliness brought tears that ran down my face, as my heart called out to God. Suddenly, right in front of me was a blue light, accompanied by a hand reaching out to me. In response, I stretched out my hand toward the light; toward what I took to be the hand of Jesus. Love surrounded me, along with the blessed assurance that all would be okay.

Zephaniah 3:12–13 remind me of Psalm 23, and my experience reminds me of Isaiah 41:10, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Zephaniah and Isaiah both speak hope and peace to God’s people. Because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, we, too, can be members of God’s family and claim these beautiful promises.

Does uncertainty or worry over circumstances in your life fill you with dread? Jesus is reaching out to you. All you have to do is take hold of his unswerving hand.

Have no fear in the presence of God’s perfect love.

Dale Witowski is a lay pastor, sanctuary steward, missions’ director, and Sunday school teacher at Horseheads Community Wesleyan Church (NY). She is also an artist and a poet.

© 2023 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.