By Pastor Mark Lee

Several years ago, a study was released connecting common worries with actual outcomes.  Subjects were asked to write down their fears over an extended period of time.  They were later asked to review their concerns and identify which came to fruition.  Remarkably, approximately 85 percent of what the subjects worried about never happened.  In short, they wasted their time and energy on absolutely nothing.

Of course, fear is part of life.  Daily concerns regarding health, finances, and responsibilities plague us.  In addition, there are national and global situations that create anxiety.  From terrorism and political turmoil to social unrest and natural disasters, it is not surprising that an estimated 19 million Americans have been diagnosed with anxiety disorders.

With fear being such an ingrained part of human nature, it is easy to see why it is a common theme in the Bible.  In fact, the word “fear” is mentioned more than 500 times in the King James Version.  At the same time, some biblical scholars claim the phrase “fear not” is repeated 365 times – one for each day of the year.  With “fear not” being the most repeated command in the Bible, you know it is a message that God wants us to take to heart.

Isaiah 41:10 says, “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.”  While belief in God does not make you immune to sadness or suffering, it does provide hope.  We can’t get rid of fear, but we can rest assured in knowing that God is in control.  After all, we know how this story will end.

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.