Fear Not

In the news recently we have been hearing a lot about violence, drugs, terrorism, murder, kidnappings....any number of horrible things taking place here in Mexico and around the world. The US and Canadian governments have issued travel advisories warning citizens to avoid Mexico for the time being due to the unrest, and I have talked to people who have changed travel plans because of the reports they have heard. The fighting is between various drug trafficking groups, but unfortunately their agendas have an effect on normal citizens as well. Many people live in fear, although they have nothing to do with these groups, thinking constantly, "What if...", "What's going to happen if....". However as Christians, we don't have to be afraid of the things that are happening around us in the world. The Bible tells us time and time again not to be afraid - and why? Because God is bigger than everything that is happening here on earth, and he's on our side! He has promised us his protection and all it takes on our part is trust and faith in his promises. Does this mean we can live recklessly? No, not at all - we need to be aware of our world and be cautious, but there is a difference between caution and wisdom, and fear. To remind myself of God's promises, a couple of weeks ago I wrote some Scriptures out and taped them to my door so that I see them whenever I leave the house. Sometimes I worry when I go out alone, but seeing these words reminds me that I am never alone.

The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.
Ps 34:7

I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.
Ps 4:8

You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.
Ps 32:7

I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the LORD sustains me. I will not fear the tens of thousands drawn up against me on every side.
Ps 3:5-6

The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?
Ps 27:1

Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD, is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation."
Is 12:1