Fear, the theme of this world

Psalm 23:4-6

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.  Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.^”

My pastor has often said that death still is holding 100 percent for everyone, and yet often we live life as if we will overcome death.  Death is no respecter of wealth or titles, and the Scripture is clear that after death comes the judgment.  For a follower of Christ, we only walk through a shadow of death, for our mighty God; Jesus Christ has overcome both the grave and death and has gone to prepare a place for us in heaven.

Now when it comes to fear, it is the theme of this world, fear is what drives many of the decisions mankind makes, but it should not be so with a person who has Christ living in them.  So the battle always will be, will I allow the world to mold me or will I look to the Scriptures and my Lord for He is with us.  When we walk in victory over fear, we are reminded of Isaiah 41:10, “fear not, for I am with you;
be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

As you look at verse six we are not promised a life without trouble, David knew heartache and pain, and yet he also knew that God's goodness and mercy were close at hand.  And as followers of Christ we can shout from the rooftops just as David did; we shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice