Fear not

Matthew 10:28 NASB2020
[28] And do not be afraid of those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.

Physical injuries and harsh words are more likely to happen when followers of Jesus preach the gospel of salvation in the streets or visiting houses.You can see it all over social media and even in places we know. Persecution didn’t happen today, but it also happened to all God’s prophets in the Old Testament and Jesus’ disciples in the New Testament.

The Lord Jesus said that no servants were greater than his master. As he was hated by many, so were his disciples. But he also assured that they should not fear those who kill the body but can not kill the soul. Another promised Jesus made for them is that they should not worry what to say or how to respond because help will be given at that very time through the Spirit of God. Jesus said that God deeply cares for them, too.
Looking back also in the time of prophet Ezekiel, when God sent him to speak God’s word in all Israel. God encouraged him not to fear their harsh words and actions. As the Israelites are stubborn and rebellious, God will also make Ezekiel as unyielding and hardened as they are, for him to be able to do God’s call.

God’s people in the past experienced heavy persecution that led to death. But they are not afraid because they understand that in Christ, they have eternal life. That their mortal body will transform into a glorious body, and their citizenship is in heaven. In Jesus Christ, they are well sustained and provided.

Today, when we take a serious step in sharing the gospel with our friends and family. May the word of the Lord Jesus give us the confidence that in whatever situation, we should not be afraid of the harsh words and actions that some people will do because God loves us and he will never leave us in the battle alone.

May we stand firm in our faith and continue to share Jesus in every way so that many will be saved.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, full of mercy and grace.
Thank you for the new day.
Thank you also for the new provision that you will give us today.
I pray for boldness and courage for us to be able to share the gospel.
I pray for perseverance and endurance in every situation that we will be facing. Don’t let fear overcome us, but help us to trust in your promises and provisions. In Jesus’s name. AMEN 🙏