So how do we “fear not,” as the Bible says time and time again?

Some people seek power to conquer fear.  That doesn’t work; I once read that Joseph Stalin was afraid to go to bed, sleeping in different rooms, and he traveled with five limos, all for safety.

Some people seek possessions to conquer fear.  Well, we all know the story of Howard Hughes, how he distrusted people and had paranoia about germs.  And yes, he had many possessions!

Some people seek popularity to conquer fear.  John Lennon found out that didn’t work, either.  He couldn’t sleep with the lights offs and was afraid to touch anything because of the filth (according to biographies on him).

Remember when Jesus was with his disciples on a boat and calmed the storm at sea?  It may remind us that following Christ can mean that we get wet!  We can expect rough seas.  But instead of forgetting the sovereignty of God and the power of Christ, let us remember to seek the unstirred Christ when we are afraid.  And remember Matthew 8:26:

“I tell you not to worry about everyday life – whether you have enough.  Look at the birds.  They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them.  And aren’t you far more valuable to Him than they are?  Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?”

– See more at: http://www.bethgablehicks.com//fear-not/#sthash.LVVxx3fs.dpuf