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Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. (Luke 12:32).
There are many places in the Bible that call on Christians: "Do not be afraid." It has been mentioned so many times that we should remember it every day. Our Savior Jesus Christ has redeemed us as His children. He also takes care of us, and we do not have to worry about anything. Man is naturally shy and fearful. Often the suspicion sneaks into our minds, whether I am truly a child of God. Sometimes we begin to compare ourselves with other friends in faith, and feel that others are good and fervent Christians, but I am poor, lacking any sign of the living faith. That is how the enemy of the soul wants to destroy our faith and overwhelm us. But faith is not in feelings, but it is the heartfelt trust in God. In His Word, He has created everything, in His Word He maintains all life, in His Word He also strengthens our faith. Today he also tells us: "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. " The Word of God is the nourishment and consolation for a Christian. It is therefore necessary to read and listen with our own ears to the living Word of God as nourishment for our souls. We long for it as the psalmist does: "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. " (Ps. 42:1). Under the Word, our poor soul can sometimes sing praise to God. When sins have pressed on the conscience, then there was fear and anxiety. However, even one drop of the reconciling blood has such a great power that it closes hell and opens heaven. When sins have been wiped away and drowned in the sea of grace and mercy, we can be consoled. Believe it today, my beloved travelling companion. Fear not. Hold fast to faith in both good and bad days. Eero Nieminen
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