“I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13, CSB)
Our look at God’s promises, as compiled by David Wilkerson in The Jesus Person Pocket Promise Book, now turns to our immediate circumstances. For instance, today’s promises are about when we have doubts or fears.
We all have times of doubt. That doubt could be about the truth of God’s Word, whether God really cares for you, if you have what it takes to follow God’s way and word. Some doubt can be healthy as we probe for truth. But there is also unhealthy doubt that leads toward unbelief, depression, and failure. The difference is humility.
In Mark 9:20 and following, Jesus encounters a father begging for his son to be free of demonic possession. The interesting part for us is in the middle of that passage. We pick it up as the father is describing the problem. “And many times it has thrown him into fire or water to destroy him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” Jesus said to him, “ ‘If you can’? Everything is possible for the one who believes.” Immediately the father of the boy cried out, “I do believe; help my unbelief!”” (Mark 9:22–24, CSB) The father had doubts. “If you can,” he asked. I think the dad had one last thread of hope left. After Jesus reminded him of the promise of belief, that dad prayed humbly and honestly. “I do believe; help my unbelief.”
Doubts left to fester become fears. The Bible has 365 answers for our fears. That is how many times it reminds us to “fear not.” For instance, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10, CSB)
The world, parents, and religion often use fear to motivate or manipulate people toward a desired behavior. Fear works. And there are, like doubts, healthy and unhealthy uses. We teach our children to fear fire so they don’t get burnt. But others use fear through peer pressure to make us do things we wouldn’t normally do. The Bible shows us that fear is overcome by love. “There is no fear in love; instead, perfect love drives out fear, because fear involves punishment. So the one who fears is not complete in love.” (1 John 4:18, CSB)
When we face an unknown future, doubts and fears often follow. But God’s Word reminds us that God is with us in whatever our future holds. He loves you. He may not change the circumstances, but He will be with you like He was with the three Hebrews thrown into the fiery furnace. How do we overcome our fears and doubts? Dive headfirst into His love.
Other verses for this promise (Compiled by David Wilkerson)
- Philippians 4:13
- 2 Corinthians 3:5
- Romans 4:21
- Hebrews 10:23
- Isaiah 41:10
- Malachi 3:6
- Zechariah 13:9
- Matthew 7:7-8
- James 5:16
- 1 Thessalonians 5:24
- Psalm 119:160
- Psalm 112:7
- 2 Peter 3:9
- 2 Corinthians 1:20
- Psalm 84:11
- Job 22:27
- 1 Timothy 1:15
- Isaiah 58:9
- Psalm 34:17
- Ephesians 3:12
- Psalm 4:3
- Psalm 34:15
- Luke 12:29,31
- Promises: When in Doubt or Fear - January 13, 2025
- Promises: Be Witnesses - January 8, 2025
- Promises: Peace and Unity - January 6, 2025
