365

Did you know that the phrase "do not fear" is in the Bible 356 times? I didn't know that either (I heard it in a film once). In reality this phrase is used only around 100 times, but I'm sure that the Bible talks about not fearing and trusting the Lord more than 365 times. That's a verse on not fearing for everyday of the year, and if I'm honest I need the reminder not to fear daily, sometimes several times a day. 

There are so many things in this world that can lead us to fear, but as I'm growing in knowing God more, I'm learning that there really is a way to be freed from fear. Do you want to know the secret? 

The secret is fearing the Lord and trusting in His goodness. 

The Bible has a lot to say about fear, but it also has a lot to say about the goodness of the Lord. God is a good God. He wants good things for His people. And he wants His people not to be afraid and to trust Him. 

On today, the first fearless Friday everrrrr, I'm meditating on this truth about God. 

But now thus says the LORD, 
he who created you, O Jacob,
he who formed you, O Israel,
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you.
I have called you by name, you are mine.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you,
and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you.
When you walk through the fire you shall not be burned,
and the flame shall not consume you.
For I am the LORD, your God.
The Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
Isaiah 43:1-3

God is with us through the waters, the rivers, and the fire. He has redeemed us, He calls us by name, and we are His. He is our God. He is our savior. 

I don't know about you, but that fills me with a courage to knock the smile off of fear's face. Whom shall I fear if I serve a God that does all of these things? I've got over 365 promises that show me God is beyond my fears.

What are some encouraging verses or passages that remind you of God's character and that you don't have to fear?