Fearless

The beautiful bare winter trees are beginning to leaf out in newness, and the first flowering branches of cherry, dogwood and red bud herald the season of rebirth. It’s a miracle of regeneration that takes my breath each year. How like God to give us a glimpse of the nature of His heart in the world He created.

God never changes, but His infinite riches are so far beyond comprehension that each expression of Himself to us creates a new experience for us. The rhythm of life He set as boundaries for our earthly existence is the structure in which we begin to know Him, morning by morning, season by season.

Within these bounds we learn that trust is without borders. “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, and whose trust is the Lord.” (Jeremiah 17:7 NASB) When we learn to trust Him rather than men or governments or institutions, we have freedom. Freedom to live unto God. Freedom to love with the heart of God. Freedom to think with the mind of Christ. Psalm 56:11, says, “In God I have put my trust, I shall not be afraid. What can mankind do to me?” And, again in Psalm 118:6: “The Lord is for me; I will not fear; What can man do to me?” (NASB) Trust dispels fear.

In nature, we expect the seasons to change. And yet often in our spiritual journey, when the season changes, we become alarmed or discomfited. If He has prepared the trees to withstand the bitter winter and still bring forth new life in spring, will He not prepare us in like manner? “For His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.” (2 Peter 1:3 NASB) To know Him is to trust Him. He is entirely trustworthy. As night gives way to dawn, so all our fears give way to the light of His countenance.

Lord, Jesus Christ, have mercy on me. Forgive me for the selfishness in my heart and create a clean heart in me. Purify me and make me fit to express your love to the world around me. You can create beauty from ashes and make hope spring eternal. Grant that my hope in You will shine in the darkness and proclaim Your love to the glory of the Father. Amen.

Until next week, beloved, trust Him with your whole heart and be fearless.