Day 16: Choosing Faith Over Fear
Trusting God to help you face your fears
1/28/20253 min read
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
– Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
Reflection
Fear is something we all encounter at different points in life. I’ve been afraid more times than I can count—afraid of the worst happening when my child was ill, afraid my family wouldn’t have enough to eat the next day, afraid of stepping onto a plane for the first time, afraid of failure, and even afraid of success because I wondered if I could handle the weight of it. Yet every single time I’ve felt fear in my life, God has shown me that I had no reason to be afraid—absolutely none.
Fear comes in many forms: fear of the unknown, fear of rejection, fear of judgment, or simply fear of stepping into the spotlight. Sometimes we’re afraid of bad things happening. Other times, we fear that what we hope for won’t come to pass, or that we’ll fail at something important. And then there are moments when fear is simply a response to the chaos around us—a reaction to the unpredictability of life. Watching the news or hearing about troubling events can leave us wondering, “What’s going to happen next?”
But that’s not how God wants us to live. God knows that fear is a natural human emotion, but He doesn’t want us to dwell in it or let it control our lives. In Isaiah 41:10, God speaks directly to our fear: “Do not be afraid, for I am with you.” These are not just comforting words; they are a divine promise of His presence and support.
When God spoke to Jacob in Isaiah 41, He described him as “a worm” and “little Israel”—a picture of weakness and vulnerability. Yet, in the same breath, He promised to transform Jacob into “a threshing sledge, new and sharp, with many teeth,” capable of cutting through mountains. This imagery is powerful: it reminds us that God doesn’t see us as small or incapable. He sees us as equipped, strengthened, and prepared to overcome challenges—not because of who we are, but because of who He is in us.
Living in fear robs us of the fullness of life that God intends for us. It blinds us to our identity in Christ and makes us forget who we are. But God did not give us to fear; He has given us a spirit of power, love, and a beautiful mind (2 Timothy 1:7). Yes, a beautiful mind—a mind that is fruitful, fertile, and full of God’s peace and creativity. Think of a beautiful mind like a well-tended garden. It’s a space where vibrant flowers bloom, ideas flourish, and God’s promises take root. This is the mind God has given us!
Fear wants to convince you that you’re small, powerless, and unworthy, but God says otherwise. You are His chosen child, a reflection of His power and grace. You are a threshing sledge—sharp, strong, and capable of cutting through even the most intimidating mountains. You don’t need to have all the answers or control every situation. You just need to trust the One who holds your life in His hands.
When we feel weak, that’s the perfect moment for God’s strength to shine. As Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 12:9, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” It’s not about what we can do; it’s about what God can do through us.
So today, whether it's fear of failing, being judged, stepping out in faith, or even just facing the unknown, remember who you are in Christ. God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a beautiful mind. A mind that sees beyond the chaos and focuses on His promises. Choose to trust Him. Look that fear in the eye and speak God’s truth over it.
Write down one specific fear that has been weighing on your heart.
Offer that fear to God in prayer. Ask Him to fill you with courage and peace.
Declare God’s truth over that situation. There a Bible verse for every situation. Speak it aloud and let it remind you of God’s promises.
Do one small thing today that moves you beyond your fear. Whether it’s making a decision, starting a task, or speaking up, trust that God is with you as you act.
Lord, today I bring every fear - worry, doubt, and uncertainty, and drop them at Your feet. Thank You for reminding me that I am never alone and that You are with me, holding my hand every step of the way. Help me to see myself as You see me: equipped, empowered, and chosen. Give me the courage to act, even when I feel afraid, and to trust in Your promises. I surrender my heart to You and choose faith over fear today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.