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Monday, December 15, 2014
"Fear Not"
Listen to this
message on
your
audio player.
"I was afraid" (Genesis 3:10). "After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward" (Genesis 15:1). "And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people" (Luke 2:10). "Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death" (Revelation 1:17,18).
As we prepare today's message we are aware that acts of terrorism are ongoing and especially consider the hostage situation in Australia, even as we write.
We serve as chaplains with a company that has been going through a long
period of examination in regard to a quality control certification
known as ISO (International Organization for Standardization). Brooksyne visits
a number of inspectors who were involved in the process and last week was an especially intense time for them. Although they
are quite proficient in their work they were nevertheless quite fearful when being questioned by the visiting ISO inspector.
As I (Brooksyne) approached their office one of the inspectors jumped out of her seat and approached me, "We need you to pray for us!" Fear was written all over her face but I had no idea what was going on. I inquired, "What's going on?" She responded, "ISIS is coming!"
Well, that really threw me and I didn't know how to respond. "ISIS?" I asked? "Yes, ISIS is coming." Believe me, if ISIS was coming I was ready to pray on my way out the door, but I asked for further clarification. Upon questioning I learned that the employee was referring to ISO in plural form, ISO'S, so that it sounded just like the terrorist group, ISIS. We had a good laugh as I explained what I heard and of course we had prayer as well. (Stephen spoke to Fred, the chief engineer overseeing the process, this morning and he reported they were recommended for the ISO certification!)
In life there are many situations that induce fear. Fierce storms,
financial issues, a pending health diagnosis and of course terrorism number among so many other
troubles that instill fear.
In fact there is an ever-growing list of phobias. Someone began collecting phobia words many years ago as a hobby and now has a long listing of phobias! (See below for link to list.) I am sure everyone will find something on the list they struggle with. Many deal with Glossophobia but that is something I needed to get over early. Scores of families on the West Coast are experiencing some degree of Ombrophobia or Pluviophobia.
The longest phobia listed and a word I rarely use in my sermons is "Hippopotomonstrosesquipedaliophobia", although I do try to be considerate of people who may have this phobia.
There is a positive aspect of fear as well. We are told in Scripture to "fear God", although this is different than all other kinds of fear. Many explain that this has the sense of giving reverence to Almighty God.
Fear itself is first expressed in the Bible shortly after the transgression in the garden when Adam said to God, "I was afraid" (Genesis 3:10). The remainder of the Bible is full of many expressions of human fear for a wide variety of reasons. It's still that way today and they seem to keep coming up with new causes for fear!
I find great assurance in the tiny phrase found often in Scripture translated "fear not" (or generally "do not be afraid" in the NIV). This phrase is found sixty-two times from Genesis to Revelation. In today's Scripture texts we have both the first and last occurrences in the Bible.
"Fear not" is the powerful message spoken by the angels to the shepherds in the Christmas story. The shepherds were understandably afraid during their
experience. "And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and
the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly
frightened" (Luke 2:9).
"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people" (Luke 2:10).
Fear is weighing down the heart of some who read this today. It's crippling you spiritually and emotionally and perhaps
even physically. When I take the time to stop and really consider my
emotions I realize that I experience fear and anxiety most when I'm not
trusting in what God has said or what He has shown me through His
character traits.
Today I encourage you to listen carefully for the voice of our heavenly
Father. He speaks gently to our hearts reminding us to put our
confidence in Him.
God continues to speak, "Fear not". He truly cares for those who belong to Him.
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Father,
the message conveyed by the angels was heard by the shepherds and rings
out for all generations. Multiple circumstances can frighten us
causing us to lose hold of the assurance that You watch over and care
for us. We need not fear the terror of night nor the arrow that flies
by day, moving swiftly, coming suddenly, and striking when we least
expect it. Though trials assail us they will not engulf us, for we
overcome the
enemy of fear through the word of our testimony. Jesus overcame the
enemies of hatred, persecution, suffering and death and rose victorious
over the grave. May the
same resurrected power of Jesus subside our fears and doubts and build
our
faith and trust in the Holy One of Israel. Amen.
Special Note: We
want to thank all who have financially supported our ministry this past
year. We typically see a spike in giving at the end of the year for
which we are most thankful. We realize there are many fine ministries
and causes requesting support at this time but if the Lord would lead
you we surely need and appreciate the financial support from our
readers and listeners. Our ministry (and support) is essentially comprised of half
our time to Daily
Encouragement and the other half to our chaplaincy ministry to
companies (of course, this varies week by week). Each of these
ministries essentially is the same as a
part-time job
for each of us (20+
hours weekly). Our goal for many
years is that each phase would provide half of our ministry expenses
and
family income. You can donate by check, online or using PayPal. If you would like to make a donation see here
for more information or donate directly online here. Thank you!
Do any careful readers recognize the hymn titles for the two songs used in the message? See below for answer.
On Friday we shared a message about light and pointed out that so many of the Christmas songs we love have the theme of light, at least at some point in the song. Can you identify the song by the posted line dealing with light? We'll post the answers below.
Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
"Fear Not" Video Esther Mui
"Fear Not" Video Kim Hopper
Here's the phobia list referred to in today's message.
It includes "Hippopotomonstrosesquipedaliophobia"
Each year we share several online resources that we have used over the years and that may be a blessing to families and churches during this Christmas season.
"In Remembrance of Me" pdf This is a passion-filled Scripture reading for two adults. Brooksyne and I have used this reading with great receptivity during Christmas Eve services over the years. We suggest, if possible, a musical background as the message is read. It is also a great lead-in to a Communion service. It should be thoroughly practiced and read with great feeling.
"When Christ Was Born" pdf This is an adaptation to the tune of "How Great Thou Art". It's a great song to sing as a congregation since most are familiar with and love the tune.
Responsive Christmas Scripture readings for church or family:
John 1:1-18 pdf
"O Come Let Us Adore Him" pdf
My First Christmas In Heaven This is a blessed reminder for all who lost a loved one this year. This is the poem that Brooksyne read and wrote about in this message.
Christmas Knowledge Test
We have also posted two Christmas carol quizzes here (scroll down).
Daily Encouragement Net is an affiliate of Amazon. Any orders placed to Amazon using this link or any specific product link to a recommended resource in a message will help our Daily Encouragement ministry through a small commission on the sale. Thank you for considering using these links when purchasing online through Amazon! Tip: If you are a regular Amazon customer consider bookmarking this link and using it whenever you shop on Amazon.
Looking for a very special Christmas gift for your parents?
Here's an idea! "The Best Gift You Can Ever Give Your Parents"
Looking for a very special Christmas gift for your children?
Here's an idea! "The Blessing"
Answers to Christmas song quiz (Hymn title in bold)
Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne
To receive the "Daily Encouragement" each Monday-Friday through email see this page to subscribe to our email list. You can also subscribe to the Wordpress rss feed or through a Wordpress email subscription. (See the email subscription on the right side after opening this page.)
Are
our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? We ask you to
consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can
continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is
accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily
Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support
of its readers and podcast listeners. See here
for more information on supporting this
ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.
Permissions: Please feel free to pass on, reproduce and distribute any material on Daily Encouragement Net, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this material, not protect or restrict it. I do request that you keep the contact, copyright and subscription information intact.
Text only version for printing: To make a text only version for printing (without photos or any of the supplemental materials)
1) Open the basic text editor that comes with all computers (known as wordpad, textpad, etc.) You can also use a program like Word and select paste text only.
2) Select and copy the text from the portion of the message you want to print.
3) Paste into the text pad. (The photos won't show up but you will have a brief text description of the photo which you can delete or just ignore.)
4) Format if you desire (change font, increase or decrease size, etc.)
5) Print!
Scripture references are from The Holy Bible: New International Version. © 1984 by International Bible Society; NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, Copyright © 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, New King James Version (NKJV) Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. and the King James Version.
Personal Mission Statement: "I am created by God to bring Him glory. Through God's Son Jesus Christ I have been redeemed and I make it my life's goal to please the Lord. My mission in life is to honor God through my faith and obedience and to prepare myself and all whom I may influence for eternity."
© Copyright 2014 Stephen C. Weber - All Rights Reserved
Daily Encouragement Net - 495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552 USA
<Previous Message Next Message>
Monday, December 15, 2014
"Fear Not"
Listen to this
message on
your
audio player."I was afraid" (Genesis 3:10). "After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward" (Genesis 15:1). "And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people" (Luke 2:10). "Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death" (Revelation 1:17,18).
"Fear not," said he, for mighty dread
Had seized their troubled mind,
"Glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind."
Had seized their troubled mind,
"Glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind."
As we prepare today's message we are aware that acts of terrorism are ongoing and especially consider the hostage situation in Australia, even as we write.
We serve as chaplains with a company that has been going through a long
period of examination in regard to a quality control certification
known as ISO (International Organization for Standardization). Brooksyne visits
a number of inspectors who were involved in the process and last week was an especially intense time for them. Although they
are quite proficient in their work they were nevertheless quite fearful when being questioned by the visiting ISO inspector.As I (Brooksyne) approached their office one of the inspectors jumped out of her seat and approached me, "We need you to pray for us!" Fear was written all over her face but I had no idea what was going on. I inquired, "What's going on?" She responded, "ISIS is coming!"
Well, that really threw me and I didn't know how to respond. "ISIS?" I asked? "Yes, ISIS is coming." Believe me, if ISIS was coming I was ready to pray on my way out the door, but I asked for further clarification. Upon questioning I learned that the employee was referring to ISO in plural form, ISO'S, so that it sounded just like the terrorist group, ISIS. We had a good laugh as I explained what I heard and of course we had prayer as well. (Stephen spoke to Fred, the chief engineer overseeing the process, this morning and he reported they were recommended for the ISO certification!)
In life there are many situations that induce fear. Fierce storms,
financial issues, a pending health diagnosis and of course terrorism number among so many other
troubles that instill fear. In fact there is an ever-growing list of phobias. Someone began collecting phobia words many years ago as a hobby and now has a long listing of phobias! (See below for link to list.) I am sure everyone will find something on the list they struggle with. Many deal with Glossophobia but that is something I needed to get over early. Scores of families on the West Coast are experiencing some degree of Ombrophobia or Pluviophobia.
The longest phobia listed and a word I rarely use in my sermons is "Hippopotomonstrosesquipedaliophobia", although I do try to be considerate of people who may have this phobia.
There is a positive aspect of fear as well. We are told in Scripture to "fear God", although this is different than all other kinds of fear. Many explain that this has the sense of giving reverence to Almighty God.
Fear itself is first expressed in the Bible shortly after the transgression in the garden when Adam said to God, "I was afraid" (Genesis 3:10). The remainder of the Bible is full of many expressions of human fear for a wide variety of reasons. It's still that way today and they seem to keep coming up with new causes for fear!
I find great assurance in the tiny phrase found often in Scripture translated "fear not" (or generally "do not be afraid" in the NIV). This phrase is found sixty-two times from Genesis to Revelation. In today's Scripture texts we have both the first and last occurrences in the Bible.
"Fear not" is the powerful message spoken by the angels to the shepherds in the Christmas story. The shepherds were understandably afraid during their
experience. "And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and
the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly
frightened" (Luke 2:9)."And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people" (Luke 2:10).
Fear is weighing down the heart of some who read this today. It's crippling you spiritually and emotionally and perhaps
even physically. When I take the time to stop and really consider my
emotions I realize that I experience fear and anxiety most when I'm not
trusting in what God has said or what He has shown me through His
character traits.
Today I encourage you to listen carefully for the voice of our heavenly
Father. He speaks gently to our hearts reminding us to put our
confidence in Him.God continues to speak, "Fear not". He truly cares for those who belong to Him.
"Fear not," then said the Angel,
"let nothing you affright,
This day is born a Saviour
Of pure Virgin bright,
To free all those who trust in Him
From Satan's power and might."
"let nothing you affright,
This day is born a Saviour
Of pure Virgin bright,
To free all those who trust in Him
From Satan's power and might."
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Father,
the message conveyed by the angels was heard by the shepherds and rings
out for all generations. Multiple circumstances can frighten us
causing us to lose hold of the assurance that You watch over and care
for us. We need not fear the terror of night nor the arrow that flies
by day, moving swiftly, coming suddenly, and striking when we least
expect it. Though trials assail us they will not engulf us, for we
overcome the
enemy of fear through the word of our testimony. Jesus overcame the
enemies of hatred, persecution, suffering and death and rose victorious
over the grave. May the
same resurrected power of Jesus subside our fears and doubts and build
our
faith and trust in the Holy One of Israel. Amen.Special Note: We
want to thank all who have financially supported our ministry this past
year. We typically see a spike in giving at the end of the year for
which we are most thankful. We realize there are many fine ministries
and causes requesting support at this time but if the Lord would lead
you we surely need and appreciate the financial support from our
readers and listeners. Our ministry (and support) is essentially comprised of half
our time to Daily
Encouragement and the other half to our chaplaincy ministry to
companies (of course, this varies week by week). Each of these
ministries essentially is the same as a
part-time job
for each of us (20+
hours weekly). Our goal for many
years is that each phase would provide half of our ministry expenses
and
family income. You can donate by check, online or using PayPal. If you would like to make a donation see here
for more information or donate directly online here. Thank you! Do any careful readers recognize the hymn titles for the two songs used in the message? See below for answer.
On Friday we shared a message about light and pointed out that so many of the Christmas songs we love have the theme of light, at least at some point in the song. Can you identify the song by the posted line dealing with light? We'll post the answers below.
- "Disperse the gloomy clouds of night"
- "Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light"
- "Son of God, love's pure light"
- "There shone a holy light"
- "Yonder shines the infant light"
- "Break forth, O beauteous heavenly light"
- 'And to the earth it gave great light"
- "Light and life to all He brings"
- "One small light from the flame of a candle"
- "Led by the light of faith serenely beaming"
- "With a liberating light"
Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources
"Fear Not" Video Esther Mui
"Fear Not" Video Kim Hopper
Here's the phobia list referred to in today's message.
It includes "Hippopotomonstrosesquipedaliophobia"
Resources
for Christmas Celebrations
(We will leave these resources posted below our daily messages through Christmas)
Each year we share several online resources that we have used over the years and that may be a blessing to families and churches during this Christmas season.
"In Remembrance of Me" pdf This is a passion-filled Scripture reading for two adults. Brooksyne and I have used this reading with great receptivity during Christmas Eve services over the years. We suggest, if possible, a musical background as the message is read. It is also a great lead-in to a Communion service. It should be thoroughly practiced and read with great feeling.
"When Christ Was Born" pdf This is an adaptation to the tune of "How Great Thou Art". It's a great song to sing as a congregation since most are familiar with and love the tune.
Responsive Christmas Scripture readings for church or family:
John 1:1-18 pdf
"O Come Let Us Adore Him" pdf
My First Christmas In Heaven This is a blessed reminder for all who lost a loved one this year. This is the poem that Brooksyne read and wrote about in this message.
Christmas Knowledge Test
We have also posted two Christmas carol quizzes here (scroll down).
Are you Christmas
shopping online?
Daily Encouragement Net is an affiliate of Amazon. Any orders placed to Amazon using this link or any specific product link to a recommended resource in a message will help our Daily Encouragement ministry through a small commission on the sale. Thank you for considering using these links when purchasing online through Amazon! Tip: If you are a regular Amazon customer consider bookmarking this link and using it whenever you shop on Amazon.
Looking for a very special Christmas gift for your parents?
Here's an idea! "The Best Gift You Can Ever Give Your Parents"
Looking for a very special Christmas gift for your children?
Here's an idea! "The Blessing"
Answers to Christmas song quiz (Hymn title in bold)
1."Disperse the gloomy clouds of night" O Come, O Come Emmanuel
2. "Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light" O little Town of Bethlehem
3. "Son of God, love's pure light" Silent Night
4. "There shone a holy light" Go Tell It On The Mountain
5. "Yonder shines the infant light" Angels From The Realms Of Glory
6. "Break forth, O beauteous heavenly light" Title same as this line
7. 'And to the earth it gave great light" The First Noel
8. "Light and life to all He brings" Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
9. "One small light from the flame of a candle" One Small Child
10. "Led by the light of faith serenely beaming" O Holy Night
11. "With a liberating light" Praise The One Who Breaks The Darkness
2. "Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light" O little Town of Bethlehem
3. "Son of God, love's pure light" Silent Night
4. "There shone a holy light" Go Tell It On The Mountain
5. "Yonder shines the infant light" Angels From The Realms Of Glory
6. "Break forth, O beauteous heavenly light" Title same as this line
7. 'And to the earth it gave great light" The First Noel
8. "Light and life to all He brings" Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
9. "One small light from the flame of a candle" One Small Child
10. "Led by the light of faith serenely beaming" O Holy Night
11. "With a liberating light" Praise The One Who Breaks The Darkness
1) While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks By Night
2) God Rest You Merry Gentlemen
2) God Rest You Merry Gentlemen
Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne
To receive the "Daily Encouragement" each Monday-Friday through email see this page to subscribe to our email list. You can also subscribe to the Wordpress rss feed or through a Wordpress email subscription. (See the email subscription on the right side after opening this page.)
Are
our daily encouragement messages a blessing to you? We ask you to
consider making a donation to Daily Encouragement Net so that we can
continue to prepare and provide this daily resource which is
accessed by believers and seekers all over the world. Daily
Encouragement Net relies solely on the generosity and financial support
of its readers and podcast listeners. See here
for more information on supporting this
ministry. Gifts are tax deductible.Permissions: Please feel free to pass on, reproduce and distribute any material on Daily Encouragement Net, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this material, not protect or restrict it. I do request that you keep the contact, copyright and subscription information intact.
Text only version for printing: To make a text only version for printing (without photos or any of the supplemental materials)
1) Open the basic text editor that comes with all computers (known as wordpad, textpad, etc.) You can also use a program like Word and select paste text only.
2) Select and copy the text from the portion of the message you want to print.
3) Paste into the text pad. (The photos won't show up but you will have a brief text description of the photo which you can delete or just ignore.)
4) Format if you desire (change font, increase or decrease size, etc.)
5) Print!
Scripture references are from The Holy Bible: New International Version. © 1984 by International Bible Society; NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, Copyright © 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, New King James Version (NKJV) Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. and the King James Version.
Personal Mission Statement: "I am created by God to bring Him glory. Through God's Son Jesus Christ I have been redeemed and I make it my life's goal to please the Lord. My mission in life is to honor God through my faith and obedience and to prepare myself and all whom I may influence for eternity."
© Copyright 2014 Stephen C. Weber - All Rights Reserved
Daily Encouragement Net - 495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552 USA