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gift of fear? // Wednesday E-Devotion

Mary when the angel appeared to her. Held by fear.

The shepherds when the host of angels showed up. Startled by fear.

The disciples when they were in a storm. Robbed by fear.

Fear cripples us, blinds us, robs us, handcuffs us and holds us tight. Fear kicks faith to the curb every time. But the worst thing about fear is that is takes away the greatest and best opportunities we are ever offered. Think about it. Fear will keep us from seeing and keep us from doing. Question: where does fear come from?

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT)

“So you see, it isn't enough just to have faith. Faith that doesn't show itself by good deeds is no faith at all—it is dead and useless.” James 2:17 (NLT)

“So, you see, it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that there is a God and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.” Hebrews 11:6 (NLT)

Fear could have kept Mary from being the chosen mother of Jesus. But faith pushed her on.

Fear could have kept the shepherds from meetings Jesus. But faith paved the road to the manger.

Fear could have kept the disciples from ever getting in a boat again. But boat travel and the good news kept being part of their lives.

Fear is the gift from Satan that crushes faith. Faith is the gift from God that disables and kills fear. Which word, fear or faith, will convey your Christmas thoughts and your Christian life right now. Fear will keep us from being all God wants us to be. Faith will allow us to attempt great things, to go the distance, see the most awesome sights and to meet God every where He is. Fear or faith. Which is your gift this Christmas?

Mark Batterson put it like this:

Spiritual maturity is seeing and seizing God-ordained opportunities. Think of every opportunity as God’s gift to you. What you do with those opportunities is your gift to God. I’m absolutely convinced that our greatest regrets in life will be missed opportunities. (In A Pit With A Lion on a Snowy Day, page 17)
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