the Lord Jesus gives us words of hope and power: "Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid..." (John 14:27). "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me you might have peace. In the world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33).

right now, God is with you and will never leave you nor forsake you. the devil (and any other bullies) can't scare you. "Greater is He that is in you" (I John 4:4).

the protection of the Almighty surrounds you. stay close to Him. "you shall not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flies by day; nor for the pestilence that walks in darkness; nor for the destruction that wastes at noonday. because you have made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, your habitation; there shall no evil befall you, neither shall any plague come nigh your dwelling" (Psalm 91:5-6, 9-10).

let Him speak to your heart, calming the troubled seas. "Peace, be still." lay your worries down at the feet of Jesus, release every anxiety to Him in prayer. don't stifle your concerns, let Him know. breathe in His presence. He is a very present help in time of trouble.

there's nothing wrong with taking care of yourself and your personal safety--lock the doors, stay alert, carry a whistle or cellphone, whatever helps. refuse to meditate on TV or movie images that would scare you. but after you've done everything you know to do, then God. resist every phobia, every compulsion, every fear in the mighty name of Jesus (James 4:7). they must leave you. start a new life in the Messiah, where all things are new--including your thoughts and responses to old stimuli.

even in times of war, the Lord gives you powerful promises from His Word. allow these Scriptures to wash over your heart and mind: "Fear thou not; for I am with you: be not dismayed; for I am your God: I will strengthen you; yes, I will help you; yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness. behold, all they that were incensed against you shall be ashamed and confounded: they shall be as nothing; and they that strive with you shall perish. you shall seek them, and shalt not find them, even them that contended with you: they that war against you shall be as nothing, and as a thing of nought. for I the Lord your God will hold your right hand, saying unto thee, fear not; I will help you" (Isaiah 41:10-13).

we have known the Lord's kindness and blessing all around the world. geography and politics do not limit Him. the threats of enemies do not diminish Him. the stalking by those seeking your harm does not overpower Him. call out to Jesus today. He will speak to you and say, "Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid" (Matthew 15:27). when He steps into your ship, the winds will cease and there will be calm. peace in the midst of the storm is His promise to you.

bad things do not come from God. but use your days of desperation as a wake-up call. what is truly important in life? get yourself into the house of God on a regular basis, draw strength and renewed commitment. stay under His canopy of protection and peace, helping others even as you have been helped.

Real Life Church
po.box.723
myrtle.beach.sc.29578
(843).449-7700