"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~

Did you know that the saying "Do not fear" is said in the bible 365 times? That is a daily reminder that we should never be afraid; for God is more powerful than fear. For example I am going to share with you something not many people know; I used to fear dying. It may not be a big surprise to you, but I have always struggled with that fear. Even the fear of others dying affects me immensely. When I don't know if my family will walk through that door again just scares me to a point where I'm always afraid. It was a constant struggle for me and still sometimes is. But, I don't fear my passing anymore. The reason being is that I know that God is "behind the scenes of this", and if he wants me to join him in heaven early then that's what will happen. I know that I'm just passing through this world, and I have a far better future awaiting me in heaven.

So whatever causes you to fear something just remember that God is with you. Even through the hard times and the bad times where it seems like he doesn't care or doesn't have time; he is in your heart. We do not know the plans he has for us, but we do know this: let God guide you in your way. Also remember that we have a choice in all of this too. God does not make your future a straight, set, and done path for you. There are road blocks that you will encounter that will cause you to choose between a couple options. He gives us all free will. Remember that.

What I am going to start doing is praying in the morning as soon as I wake up, and at night before I go to bed. I always used to do this but I stopped doing it and started to loose connection with God. I always have had my relationship with God but it just seems like I am improving it as I go. Writing this book is really helping me to put my time with God first and everything else second. So hopefully I will post on more than just Sunday's. Maybe what I will do is post big chapters/lessons on Sunday and smaller chapters during the week because this is a really relaxing time for me. Especially when I read my bible; that is just the time where God and I spend some quality time together and I can feel his presence.

Challenge: Pray every night and morning a special prayer between you and God. It can be as short, sweet, and simple as "Give me strength to encounter this day with you, Amen."

Prayer: Lord please help me to not fear and know that you are with me. Help give me strength to push aside any sadness or anger that threatens to fill my body and allow you to take control. For I can not handle my life alone and need you to be here with me. I pray for those who are not as fortunate as I to have you in my life to eliminate fear. Thank you for all that you do in my favor. I love you more than words can say. Amen.

~A believer~