The phrase “do not be afraid” (or similar variations such as “fear not”) appears numerous times in the Bible. The exact number can vary slightly depending on the translation, but it is generally cited around 365 times as a reminder not to fear. Let’s take a look at some of them.
Assurance of God’s Presence:
– Example: Isaiah 41:9-10 (NASB): “You whom I have taken from the ends of the earthand called from its remotest parts,
and said to you, ‘You are My servant,
I have chosen you and have not rejected you.
Do not fear, for I am with you;
Do not be afraid, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you, I will also help you,
I will also uphold you with My righteous right hand. “
– Implication: This assures us that God has chosen us as His servant, and He is always with us, providing strength and support.
Encouragement Through Challenges:
– Example: Joshua 1:9 (NASB): “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified nor dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. “
– Implication: It encourages us to remain strong and courageous in the face of challenges of unknown future, knowing that God accompanies them.
Divine Protection:
– Example: Psalm 23:4 (NASB): “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
– Implication: This provides comfort and reassurance of God’s protection during difficult and dangerous times.
Guidance and Direction:
– Example: Deuteronomy 31:8 (NASB): “And the Lord is the one who is going ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not desert you or abandon you. Do not fear and do not be dismayed. “
– Implication: It assures that God guides and directs our paths, leading us through life’s uncertainties.
During Angels Appearance:
– Example: Luke 2:10-11 (NASB): “And so the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. “
– Implication: Angelic messages often begin with reassurance, emphasizing that divine encounters or revelations are not to be feared.
Faith Over Fear:
– Example: Matthew 10:29-31: ” Are two sparrows not sold for an assarion? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all counted. So do not fear; you are more valuable than a great number of sparrows.”
– Implication: It emphasizes the value of our lives to God, encouraging our faith and trust over fear and anxiety.
What do these verses speak about how do we respond to God’s character?
- Trust in God’s Plan: Encourages us to trust in God’s overarching plan and sovereignty.
- Strength and Courage: Builds inner strength and courage, empowering us to face life’s challenges with faith.
- Inner Peace: Promotes inner peace and calmness by reassuring us of God’s constant presence and protection.
- Positive Outlook: Helps us to have a positive outlook on life, for our anxieties and fears are not greater than our God.
- Motivation to Act: Inspires us to live a life pleasing to God without fear.
Overall, the recurring theme of “do not be afraid” serves to reinforce faith, provide comfort, and motivate us to live courageously and confidently under God’s care.
Angga