Susan LaffertyIn the midst of overwhelming challenges, we hold on to basic exhortations from Scripture. For clarity. And courage.
Maybe we’re wading in the rising tide of a pandemic. Or standing in the battle against racism and injustice, praying, “…let justice flow like water and righteousness like an unfailing stream” (Amos 5:24).
Hebrews 10 instructs us. Step by step.
From a young age, I heard about Jesus and His love. Sang songs about Him. Listened as my parents read Bible stories. Our family prayed often. I was loved and cared for.
And yet.
And yet I was lost. Fearful. Felt the darkness. Something wasn’t right. And I knew it. “Do not lie” seemed to compel me toward that very thing. Lying.
My friend hesitates. Uncomfortable when I speak of “the fear of the Lord.” And pray it for our children.
Through the years, from their youngest days, this has been my prayer. That they may walk in the fear of the Lord. Know His wisdom. Recognize His holiness.
But there are too many things to fear in our world today. We don’t need to make God one more thing to fear. Right? I think that’s the unspoken piece of this friend’s response.
But Jesus talks about fear. The wrong kind and the right kind.
