“All our fears are wicked, and we fear because we will not nourish ourselves in our faith. How can anyone who is identified with Jesus Christ suffer from doubt or fear!” (Oswald Chambers, My Utmost For His Highest, November 14th)
Reading this devotional exposed some of my hidden fears. One fear came in season. Almost every November for the past several years, including this year, my health has taken a turn for the worse with returning and new symptoms. When the leaves started to dry up and temperatures went down, my fear of cold winter and its impact on my health crept in bit by bit like the evening shadows.
The fear, not being addressed for days, became so real and overwhelming that I almost felt an earthquake or a storm brewing inside. By His grace, God brought my attention to Psalm 46:1-3 –
“God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging”
I had to battle through my feelings, bring my fear to Jesus, and go to Him and His word for nourishment and comfort for my soul. There was no condemnation from Him, but only wonderful promises of protection, comfort, and provision.