God's Glory Church

“And the Angel of the Lord appeared to him and said to him: ‘The Lord is with you, brave man!'” – Judges 6:12

I was appointed to undergo a medical examination. Although I didn’t have any health problems recently, I was still scared. Memories of an unexpected diagnosis that had been given to me in the distant past appeared in my memory. I knew God was with me and I just had to trust Him. However, I was still afraid.

I was saddened by fear and lack of faith. If God is always there, why am I so worried? One morning I remembered the story of Gideon.

The angel called him a “valiant man” (Judg. 6:12) and ordered him to fight the Midianites. However, fear gripped Gideon. God promised him His presence and victory, but he sought confirmation again and again (vv. 16-23, 36-40).

And the Lord did not condemn Gideon for his fear. He understood everything. In the evening before the battle, God once again assured Gideon of victory and even told him what he must do to get rid of fear (Judg. 7:10-11).

The Lord understood my feelings. His reminder gave me courage. My heart was filled with peace and understanding that He was with me, no matter what the outcome. The medical examination went well: no health problems were found.

We have a God who understands our fears and reassures us with His Word and Spirit (Ps. 22:4; John 14:16-17). Let us worship Him with thanksgiving, as Gideon did (Judg. 7:15).

What fears and anxieties do you feel? How does knowing that God is with you and wants to help you help you?

Dear God, thank you for not judging my fears, but instead always assuring me of Your presence. If I am afraid, help me to turn to You and learn to trust You.

Author: Karen Huang