Knowing God Casts Out Fear

Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
-Joshua 1:9 NIV
 
When Joshua succeeded Moses to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, God spoke these words of direction and encouragement. These same words are promised to us, but we have a hard time believing and trusting because we rely on ourselves and see visible circumstances that cloud our faith in God.
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Knowing God intimately overrides and dispels unbelief and fear. When we earnestly seek His face, feel His presence, hear His voice, and receive His inspiration, we can move forward with conviction, strength, and courage.

A casual, part-time relationship with God will lead to fear and persistent struggles. Thankfully, we have a loving and caring heavenly Father who will discipline and lead us back to depending and trusting in Him full time. Proverbs 3:12 NIV explains, “Because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.” Jesus desires our worship, our time, and our commitment to meaningful fellowship with Him. He freely gives us His perfect love and peace which will drive out all of our fear before it can gain a foothold. “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” [1John 4:18]
 
Lord, help me to focus each day on knowing You, seeking Your face, and trusting in You alone, not in myself or my circumstances.
 
Lord, fill me with the Holy Spirit and cast out all my fears that are holding me back from living freely in Your radiant light.