Lord, I fear so many things- pain, losing my children, the unknown, my future, the depravity and violence of this world. Money problems, marital fights, a sick friend… you name it, Father; in dark days, during hard times, I find myself fretting too much.

God I know you tell me in your Word not to fear. In fact You actually say “do not be afraid” 70 times. Over and over again You’ve laid out what not to be afraid of, who not to be afraid of.

And yet I do. I fear so much… too much.

Forgive me Father.

You have hedged me in, You lead me to quiet waters, You restore me. You know my comings and goings. You have the best plans laid out for me. I will remember Your faithfulness in my life better, the safety and security You give me. Help me to call to memory Your good works towards me. Help me to not fear the storms around me nor the arrows that fly at me.

Lord You have taught me a better way- a way of fearing that leads to righteousness. You have instructed me how to fear BETTER. You know I am prone to worry, anxiety, and trepidation so You’ve given me a safe place to put that fear in- in You. You desire me to fear You. How marvelous a thing! God You are so good to me, you don’t demand I not fear at all, rather you demand I learn to fear rightly, wisely, and You only. You give my fear a safe outlet. Teach me in this way Lord!

May I fear better! May I fear not the things or situations or people of this world. May I stand in awestruck wonder and amazement at Your Self- on my knees, hands open in surrender, eyes fixed on Your glory, and heart filled to the brim with reverent fear.

Amen

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” Proverbs 1:7 ESV