The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe. – Proverbs 29:25
Media outlets often play to human fears. When you turn on the news, folks are lining up to tell you what to dread. Sadly, for some, apprehension has become a defining element of their life, every decision is made in relation to fear.
In the Bible, Eve’s temptation was based on the fear she was missing out on being wise like God. This led her into disobedience and numbed her righteous fear of breaking her relationship with her loving Creator. She succumbed to what Bible scholars call misplaced fear, disturbed about something outside of her control. Further, her decision moved her into the confusion of misplaced faith. This is true of any belief that something other than a right relationship with God will bring security. Both misplaced fear and misplaced faith will redirect you away from God’s character and the peace He has for you.
Righteous fear builds resilience in the face of uncertainty: “The fear of the Lord leads to life, and whoever has it rests satisfied” (Proverbs 19:23). Righteous faith in God through Jesus Christ anchors your security, “He is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him“ (Hebrews 7:25).
Do a belief check today. Are you placing your trust in God in every circumstance? Or have you placed faith in the preparations that you make for the future? Put your trust first in God and His Son, rest in His designs to restore the world to His glory. Pray today for decision-makers in government agencies to join you in considering themselves before their Creator, and ask that they will rightly place their faith in Him.
Today’s Verse: Proverbs 29:25
The fear of man lays a snare,
but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Psalm 16:7-11
I bless the Lord who gives me counsel;
in the night also my heart instructs me.
8 I have set the Lord always before me;
because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.
9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices;
my flesh also dwells secure.
10 For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol,
or let your holy one see corruption.
11 You make known to me the path of life;
in your presence there is fullness of joy;
at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
