Fear or Fear Not
Say to those with fearful hearts, "Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you."
Isaiah 35:4
Most of us tend to think too highly of ourselves. Our love for having the right answers, solving our own problems, and feeling in control of every aspect of our lives demonstrates our inclination to think we possess personal sovereignty. Consequently, we spend a lot of time worrying.
A businessman once constructed a "Worry Chart" to keep a record of his fears. He discovered that 40 percent of his worries involved things that probably wouldn't happen, 30 percent involved past decisions that he couldn't unmake, 12 percent regarded other people's criticisms, and 10 percent involved his health. He concluded that only 8 percent of his worries were really legitimate (if there is such a thing)—that is, things he could actually do something about.
So how do we overcome our fears? How do we rid ourselves of worry and anxiety, most of which is unfounded anyway. The Bible says that perfect love cast out all fear. So maybe we should focus on God's love, not on our fear.
"Our anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow, but only empties today of its strength."
- Charles Spurgeon (1834 -1892)
To purchase this devotional please visit New Life Ministries
Taken from The Life Recovery Devotional: Thirty Meditations from Scripture for Each Step in Recovery by Stephen Arterburn and David Stoop. Copyright © 1991 by Stephen Arterburn and David Stoop. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved.
7 Things to Stop! 7 Things to Start! 7 Minutes That Matter Most!
If you're thinking the 7-minute solution to a happier marriage sounds far too simplistic, even a bit crazy, we dare you to read this book. It will revolutionize your marriage. Drawing from an extensive national survey of more than 1300 men and women, best-selling author Steve Arterburn first reveals 7 things you must stop doing that damage your marriage. Second, he presents 7 positive things you must start doing to build a great marriage. But most important, he tells you what to do if your spouse is not willing to do anything. As Arterburn explores those behaviors with real-life stories and biblical insight, you will discover fresh ideas and greater motivation to make your marriage thrive. Finally, Arterburn reveals a final 7 that brings you to the heart of the matter! The 7 minutes that will matter most for any couple, no matter whether you're just thinking of getting married or have been together for many years. Once you get it, you'll never question the 7-minute marriage solution!
Share with your friends