No More Fear

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10

Recommended Reading Luke 1:30-33

Hobophobia—the fear of beggars. Textophobia—the fear of certain fabrics. Ombrophobia—the fear of rain. Syngenesophobia—the fear of relatives . . . and the list goes on. There are hundreds of unique fears that immobilize some individuals at times. Not to mention those that are more common: fear of heights, public speaking, the dark, spiders, and fear of failure.

When Mary, the mother of Jesus, was approached by the angel Gabriel, the first thing he said to her was, "Do not be afraid." And it's easy to understand why. Being visited by an angel is a fearful prospect. But there is a deeper spiritual message in Gabriel's words: "The message I bring about the birth of Christ is a message of courage, for He will take away all fear." The book of Hebrews says that many people live with life's greatest fear, the fear of death (Hebrews 2:15). More than any other, Jesus took away the need for this fear by coming into the world.

Today, as you celebrate the birth of Christ, celebrate as well the fact that His death and resurrection have made eternal life a promise for all who believe in Him.

He whose head is in heaven need not fear to put his feet into the grave.
Matthew Henry