An angel visits Mary, and the scripture says she was greatly troubled. The angel comforted her, “Do not be afraid!”

In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God.

Some scholars say God instructs his people not to fear more than a hundred times – a common command.  Here are just a few examples:

Have I not commanded you?
Be strong and courageous.
Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged,
for the Lord your God will be
with you wherever you go.”
(Joshua 1:9)

I sought the Lord, and he answered me;
    he delivered me from all my fears.
(Psalm 34:4)

So do not fear, for I am with you;
    do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
    I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
(Isaiah 41:10)

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.
I do not give to you as the world gives.
Do not let your hearts be troubled
and do not be afraid.
(John 14:27)

…for God gave us a spirit
not of fear
but of power and love and self-control.
(2 Timothy 1:7)

Fear is such a common emotion!  We fear simple things – spiders, a failed dinner, flying, public speaking. We fear bigger things – not being able to meet our responsibilities, what others think of us, pain, death.

God says over and over again to trust Him!  Do not be afraid. “There is no fear in love!”

You and I … we have found favor with God!

What fear takes hold of you today?  Join me in praying like David prayed …

When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.
     In God, whose word I praise—
in God I trust and am not afraid.
(Psalm 56:3-4)