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Futility of Fear
Futility of Fear
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Starting in chapter 40 of Isaiah, the message of hope and deliverance is proclaimed to an otherwise hopeless generation. Continuing on through about chapter 48, Israel’s future is going to be reaffirmed. This is in stark contrast to the words of condemnation made apparent in previous chapters (Isaiah 28-39). The people are facing a time of discipline because of their rebellion and the inevitable results are going to be catastrophic. They will be handed over to a pagan nation, their pinnacle city of Jerusalem will be destroyed, and the next few generations will remain captive under the bonds of foreign territories for more than two centuries. When I consider all that Israel and Judah were facing, my day-to-day problems begin to pale in comparison.
Despite Israel’s haughty abandonment of the Lord, there will be a message of consolation given to the people. It is one that invokes encouragement, relieves anxiety, cheers the heart, and ultimately reconciles the soul. The message is of God’s willingness to be near even in times of despair. God will command the people, “Do not fear” no less than six times in chapters 40-51. It is this reminder that would move the people to trust in God, despite the circumstances of their reality. God proved to them in times past He was adequately capable to deliver His nation out of the grip pain.
God’s Praise Distracts Fear (Is. 40:9)
God’s Presence Overshadows Fear (Is. 41:10)
God’s Assistance Alleviates Fear (Is. 41:13,14)
God’s Redemption Overcomes Fear (Is. 43:5)
God’s Power Removes Fear (Is. 44:2)
God’s Guidance Dismisses Fear (Is. 51:7)
Our sinful desires, other peoples’ actions, and even the natural course of a fallen world can all produce a less than favorable reality. No matter what the cause of our suffering is (yes, even the consequences of our sins), God has made a promise to be near to those who would turn to Him. God emphatically told the people of Israel, “Do not fear.” It is only when we seek shelter under the wings of our God that we take such peace in hostile circumstances. Dear child of God, you have nothing to be afraid of when you are near to Him.
