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So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. -Isaiah 41:10
“Fear” is defined as “an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat.”
We have all experienced fear in our lifetimes. In overcoming fear, we rely on different comforting thoughts or people. When flying, we rely on the pilot’s skill and the aircraft’s ability to operate well and the mechanics who are in charge are well trained to do their jobs. When facing medical problems, we rely on the skill and training of our physicians. Young children rely on their trust in their parents to keep them safe. We have all whispered prayers to overcome life’s most fearful periods.
When my family and I moved to Atlanta from our hometown of New Orleans over 30 years ago, we were jumping from the comfort of the known to the future of many unknowns. As we crossed Lake Pontchartrain, I remember telling my husband we were taking a leap of faith. This was a reassuring thought that overcame any anxieties we had about our decision to leave the familiar.
Christians lean on their faith in times of uncertainty. This is not a new concept as many things we do in life require faith. We have faith in God to know what is right for us and to trust in his knowing to get us through times of uncertainty and fear. Sometimes, like children, we are afraid even though we know God is in control. It is our human nature.
This is a time of uncertainty in America in dealing with post-pandemic issues. There is a trust problem that has developed among citizens with organizations and concepts that before we would have not thought about twice. In making the right decisions about how to go forward, we must trust that God is in our decision making. Just like post-9/11, we have a new reality in our country. Going forward, it is not the organizations that we must trust, but in God we trust.
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