Finding Peace in the Face of Fear: Lessons from "Abram's" Journey

Greetings friends!

As I talked about Sunday, fear is a universal human experience, even for those following Jesus! Just as Jesus experienced fear in the Garden of Gethsemane, we too will face moments of uncertainty and anxiety in our faith journey.

What Can We Learn from Abram's Fear?

 In Genesis 15, we encounter Abraham (then called Abram) in a moment of fear (despite having just experienced a great victory). After rescuing his nephew Lot from invading kings with just 318 fighters, Abraham still struggled with fear about his future - specifically about remaining childless despite God's promises before that he will have descendants “as numerous as the stars”.

How Does God Respond to Our Fears?

God's response to Abraham is profound and personal. He tells Abraham to "Fear not" and declares "I am your shield." God then takes Abraham outside to look at the stars—AGAIN promising descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky. This demonstrates how God addresses our specific fears with specific promises.

Why Do We Still Struggle with Fear Despite God's Promises?

 Like Abraham, we often want immediate answers and solutions. When God's timing doesn't match our desired timeline, fear can creep in. Abraham wanted an heir "now," but God's plan would unfold over centuries. This teaches us that God's perfect timing may not align with our preferred schedule. But, just as with Abram, we have to TRUST that God’s plan is b est!!

How Can We Find Peace in Uncertain Times?

 God's presence promises peace. Just as a child trusts their parent's waiting arms when learning to jump in the water to swim, we can trust our Heavenly Father's presence in life's deep waters MUCH more so!! This doesn't mean we won't experience fear, but rather that we can find peace through:

  • Trusting God's character

  • Which means that we BELIEVE His promises from his Word (we LISTEN to him!)

    • And Remember our citizenship is in heaven because of our faith in JESUS!

      • ** Remember… you can always be honest with God about your fears (use the Psalms as a resource to be REAL w/ God)

 Life Application

This week, identify your current fears and bring them honestly before God. Like Abraham, you can be direct and honest about your concerns. Consider these questions:

  • What specific fear is holding you back from fully trusting God?

  • How might God's promises in Scripture specifically address your fear?

  • Are you trying to force solutions on your timeline rather than trusting God's perfect timing?

Challenge: Each time fear arises this week, practice immediately turning to God's promises. Choose a specific Bible verse about God's faithfulness and memorize it to recall when anxiety strikes. Remember, you don't have to understand everything to trust that God holds your future.

I’m praying for you. Please pray for me!

Travis +

Travis Abercrombie