A Daily Purpose

Bible Study & Devotional 347

Guiding Scripture: Proverbs 29:25, ‘Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.’ 

Cross References:

Luke 12:4, “I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more.” 

John 12:43, “For they loved praise from men more the praise from God.” 

Rebel Fear

written by: Torrie Slaughter

Everything seems to stop when I’m afraid. I overthink my approach and, at times, allow doubt to take over. I become powerless and give up because I’m scared to fail. 

But God! 

When there is something necessary for faith-building, I feel a different type of fear. It urges me to seek God’s wisdom and trust His Word through the unseen goals. According to Hebrews 11:1, that is the definition of faith. (Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.)

These proverbs are warnings lighting our paths by alerting us. It is dangerous to trust our human emotions and those temporary feelings. I didn’t realize how often I trust my ‘gut’ rather than God’s Truth and power. 

It is exhausting to keep working up the: 

• nerve to be bold,

• courage to take a faith step,

• confidence to ask for help,

• strength to take off pride and put on humility.

Fear isn’t a new emotion, and there are many examples in the Bible about man fearing humans. However, God is always near and provides a choice. 

Ask God to help you make your situations less confusing. Ask our Lord through the Holy Spirit and write His response on your heart. 

His Word reminds us:

Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

Psalm 56:3 When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. 

Proverbs 30:5 Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.

As you read today’s assigned passages, I hope your reverential fear of the Lord will increase. Seek His will for your life while you wait for renewed strength.

Prayer:  Lord, please hasten our minds and order our steps. Let us be decisive and think clearly in high-pressure situations. Lord, we know who you are, and you are sovereign! Let the love of your word convict our hearts that we may grow in kindness and wisdom. Help us live a life worthy of you. Amen. 

The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan

Tuesday, December 13, 2022

Obadiah 1:1-21, Revelation 4:1-11, Psalm 132:1-18, Proverbs 29:24-25

 Download or Print the One Year Bible Reading Plan