Faith in GOD and trust in JESUS. When we find ourselves in moments of fear, we remind ourselves of our faith in the Triune God and our trust in Him. We live in a world filled with uncertainty, fear, and challenges. We fear failure, insects, snakes, heights, being scrutinized by others, public speaking, illness, and not being saved. In the age of social media, the fear of missing out or being left out has become common. Fear affects both the mind and body, leading to symptoms like fast heartbeats, rapid breathing, sweating, trembling, and muscle tension. It can also change our behavior, prompting us to avoid situations or people. Emotionally, it may cause panic or anxiety, while mentally, it can lead to obsessive thoughts and an exaggerated sense of danger.
Fear is a natural human response to uncertainty, threats, or loss. However, as Christians, our faith helps us deal with these fears: our faith in the Triune GOD—GOD the FATHER, JESUS CHRIST, and the HOLY SPIRIT. One GOD in three Persons. The Bible reassures us time and again with the words, “Fear not, for I am with you” (Isaiah 41:10 ESV). This is GOD’s promise, reminding us that He is sovereign over all things. In moments when fear grips your heart, turn to GOD, for He is our “refuge and strength” (Psalm 46:1 ESV). But what about the fear of not being saved?
Our salvation is not based on our own merits or efforts (Ephesians 2:8-9) but solely on GOD the FATHER’s grace, accepted by faith alone in JESUS CHRIST alone (and no one else), that we are truly saved. The HOLY SPIRIT who indwells in us (Romans 8:9), is guiding and convicting us of our sins (John 16:8) and pointing us to JESUS, the sinless and perfect sacrifice (Hebrews 10:10), who gave His life on the cross (Romans 5:8-9) to pay the penalty for our sins (Isaiah 59:2). This gift of grace allows us to stand blameless before the holy GOD, clothed in JESUS’ imputed righteousness (Isaiah 61:10; 2 Corinthians 5:21) to be reconciled with GOD the FATHER (Romans 5:10-11). By believing in JESUS CHRIST—the only way to GOD the FATHER (John 14:6)—as our savior, we are saved from the punishment (eternity in hell) for our sins. “And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12 ESV). Through His grace, we no longer fear condemnation in hell but find hope in eternal life through CHRIST.
While we cannot eliminate fear, trusting JESUS changes how we respond to it. This is true in my case when a family member had to undergo two consecutive surgeries this year, one in July and another in September. The first surgery caused me great anxiety (i.e., racing heart), as I prayed with another family member every 30 minutes from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM in the hospital. We thanked GOD that the surgery was successful. However, the surgeons discovered another mass that had to be removed through another major surgery. This was another period of fear (even for someone who has been posting graphics with Bible verses on this blog for five years now), giving me difficulty concentrating during a technical report writing season. From July to September, we continuously reminded ourselves that nothing is impossible with GOD. We prayed for a successful surgery and fast recovery with no complications. We read the Bible and continued listening to online sermons, hymns, and “trusting GOD’s divine providence” videos on YouTube, and surrendered to His Lordship, will, and plan; knowing that He is in control and works all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). This guidance came from the HOLY SPIRIT, giving us hope in Him that no matter the risks, GOD the FATHER is there. JESUS tells us in Matthew 19:26 (ESV), ‘With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.’ This truth applies to every area of our lives—our fears, our struggles, and even our deepest hopes. We surrender these to GOD and give Him control by praying and communicating with Him as our Master. This is not a walk in the park, but we have to be mindful and never stop doing so, even if we sometimes—if not often—miss consulting, asking, confiding, or seeking GOD. JESUS works miracles in our lives. It is this faith that allows us to step forward with confidence, knowing that GOD’s power is greater than any obstacle we face. Through it all, we give glory to the Triune GOD alone (soli Deo gloria). By His grace, the surgery was successful, and we are grateful that the family member is healing well. This journey has strengthened our trust in the Triune God.
One of the greatest comforts of the Christian faith is knowing that we do not face our fears alone. JESUS walks with us every step of the way. Whether it’s near-misses with cars or other close calls, we thank our Lord and Savior for His protection. He promises never to leave or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5 ESV) and when we place our confidence in Him, fear loses its grip on us (Matthew 10:31). JESUS Himself said, “Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid” (John 14:27 ESV), reminding us that He is the source of our peace. By relying on His promises and knowing that He has already overcome the world (John 16:33), we can face life’s uncertainties with courage. No matter what trials we encounter, we are secure in His protection and love. When we place our trust in JESUS, we find peace beyond understanding (Philippians 4:7). And as we trust in JESUS, we also trust in the power of prayer. JESUS promises that when we pray in faith, GOD the FATHER hears us. “Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the FATHER may be glorified in the SON” (John 14:13 ESV). Faith in the Triune GOD and trust in JESUS CHRIST are the keys to living with peace despite the constant presence of fear in our world. Whether we are asking for strength in times of trial or seeking the HOLY SPIRIT’s guidance, we are confident that GOD will answer. Let us continue to trust JESUS and walk in the assurance that with Him, nothing is impossible.
P.S.
I’m grateful to the Triune GOD for the direction and opportunity to serve and know Him by sharing Bible verses in these daily posts. I also thank you—the readers—for your encouragement; thank you so much for walking this journey of faith with me. Indeed, as JESUS CHRIST said, nothing is impossible with GOD!
Gersom Clark 