Take Courage! It Is I. Don’t Be Afraid

by Nico van der Merwe | Jun 15, 2017

At times I can identify with the Psalmist when he says, “For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong. They are free from common human burdens; they are not plagued by human ills.” (Psalm 73:3-5)

Then God reminds me of the numerous riches I have in Him. His Grace. His Peace. His Favour. His Power. His Love … even when I forget all these virtues.

How can I forget, you may ask? Because of the cares and the concerns of the day forcing my eyes away from Jesus … while fear sets in.

And all that Jesus wants us to do is ‘look!’ Look to Him that is the Only One that makes the impossible, possible and takes away the fear. “… looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.” (Heb. 12:2)

God said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere man do to me?” (Heb. 13:5 and 6).

Then I see the first part of verse 5 …,”Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have…” and only then do I start understanding the full meaning of Jesus saying to the disciples,

“Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” (Mark 6:50)

“…as He climbs into ‘my boat’ and my mind stops – unable to take it all in – and with my eyes fixed on Jesus, I hear Him say, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest for your souls.” (Matt 11:28)

Take courage my friend, and don’t be afraid. God is with you.

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8 Comments

Jaco on 22 June 2017 at 6:25 am

Very inspirational!
Deon Farmer on 19 June 2017 at 12:34 pm

Dear Nico, Thank you for sharing this truth and wisdom, we all carry a burden or two too many! I pray that we will be protected against the lure of money and posessions and share with the many needy from all that God bestows upon us! Live love! Deon
Pat on 19 June 2017 at 11:21 am

Dear Nico
I can agree with everything you say because the cares of the world can crush you unless you hold onto the Lord
Take care Patti
Louise van Deventer on 19 June 2017 at 10:43 am

❤️
Heidi Taylor on 19 June 2017 at 9:30 am

Hello Nico
Once again this is so timeous a reminder for me. Bless you.
Heidi
Simon on 19 June 2017 at 8:48 am

Hi Nico,

This is really encouraging because at times I feel very down and to read this, it really made me think that I do not have to worry because God is in control.

Thank you.
Gerrit Wolfaardt on 19 June 2017 at 8:48 am

Thanks for a powerful word. Blessings, Gerrit
Amanda Els on 19 June 2017 at 8:37 am

Dankie. Van Khairos privaatskool. Het dit nodig gehad !

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