I want to be someone who has courage whatever my circumstances. But, quite often I struggle with fear. Fear of a less than favorable outcome with my health, not knowing or having control over what the future holds for my family, even being a failure at what I do. You most likely have similar fears. But, I want to be, and I’m sure you do too, a woman who laughs in the face of fear.
So how do we become bold in the battle?
The Bible continually tells us to not be afraid. But, we shouldn’t be ashamed of being afraid, it’s expected. It was normal for many biblical heroes we look up to, too. God continually told Abraham, Moses, Joshua…“Do not be afraid.”
But, thankfully, God doesn’t stop with that command. He gives us good reasons why we should have no fear. We will look at a different reason each week for the next month.
Why You can be Fearless Whatever Your Circumstances
God is your shield.
Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield.
Genesis 15:1
To my twenty-first-century brain, a shield doesn’t sound like much protection. We don’t use shields in our day-to-day living and we rarely encounter one, except for maybe in a museum or a child’s playset. And, the latter is probably no longer politically correct. So, what can we learn about this form of protection?
In ancient times, shields were not the small, round objects we often imagine. Instead, shields were large rectangles — sizable enough to protect the entire body from head to toe. Going into battle, warriors would carry a shield but those of rank mostly likely had a shield-bearer. A shield-bearer would go into the conflict at his right-hand side of his master, protecting the body where he was vulnerable to attack, and the shield-bearer fought when needed. A shield-bearer was brave, able to stand up in danger, and completely loyal to the person he was protecting.
David was a shield-bearer for King Saul. David often reminds us in the Psalms that God is our shield. But, when he wrote the words “I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken,” I wonder if David was thinking of God as his shield-bearer — always there protecting him in danger?
Do you need to think of God as your shield-bearer?
What battle are you facing?
Remember, you are not alone. When and where you are most vulnerable, God is close by you, in the fight with you, protecting you, and never leaving your side.
As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him.
Psalm 18:30
