The most repeated command in the Bible is some version of “fear not!” It sounds great in theory, but let’s be honest, how can God expect us to not live in fear when everything around us feels so out-of-control? Hurricane devastation. Terrorist attacks. Economic troubles. Record rates of depression and anxiety. Lord, have mercy.

In Isaiah, God commands,

“Don’t panic. I’m with you. There’s no need to fear for I’m your God. I’ll give you strength. I’ll help you. I’ll hold you steady, keep a firm grip on you.” (Isaiah 41:10, The Message)

When God commands something, such as fear not, we can count on three things: it’s for good reason, it’s for our good, and it brings Him glory.

In Isaiah 41:10, God is speaking specifically to the people of Israel, who are aware of all the danger around them, and it is only through God’s promise of His presence that fear loses its paralyzing power over them. We are not Israel, and our dangers are different, but the promise is the same and still holds true for us today.

God says there is no need to fear, not because everything is fine, but because “I’m your God.” What does our panic express? Could it be possible that our fear tells God we don’t trust Him? Do we actually believe that we care more than God does about His love coming down and His will being done? (Matthew 6:10)

The One who says, “I’m with you,” is Almighty God. He is the judge of all nations (Psalm 110:6) and the ruler of all rulers (Revelation 19:16). He reigns over all things (Psalms 9:7-9). He is the alpha and omega, the beginning and the end (Revelation 22:13). He is the one who has already won the victory over evil and death (1 Corinthians 15:55-57). This is the One who says, “I’m with you!

Those who have put their hope in Christ do not need to be “panic people.” We are given the supernatural peace to prevail in times that are terrifying and disheartening, because we know who wins in the end. 

Because He is all these things, and because He is with you in all things, He can therefore command you, “Do not fear.” We can “fear not” in all that we face because He is present in it. And He will ultimately prevail over it.

The secret to living fearlessly in this fallen world isn’t putting your head in the sand and hoping it will all turn out OK. The secret to fearless living is believing that God is who He says He is and is able to do what He says He can do! It’s drawing on the assurance of His presence because His presence is our confidence. His presence empowers us to “fear not.” His presence is peace. And panic loses its power in His presence.

And when “fear not” feels impossible, call to mind His promise:

“’I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ So, we can confidently say, ‘The Lord is my Helper. I will not fear. What can man do to me?’” (Hebrews 13:5b-6, ESV)

Draw closer to God for your courage and pray fervently, as Jesus taught us, for His will to be done on Earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:10).

Adapted fromThe Most Repeated Command in the Bible and It Will Bring You Closer to God” by Jeannie Cunnion, 6 October 2024.