Living NOT in Fear

     I believe God knows exactly what we need long before we do.  And it often takes a long time of going through the trial before we realize that God has a plan in it.  There are even instances when we will never see just why God has allowed certain things to happen.  This can be scary.  It can be comforting.  It can be overwhelming.  It can be calming.  What we choose to do with this reality determines how we walk through each trial placed before us.  We will not be very useful if we live in fear.
     Choosing an attitude of gratitude results in open eyes and hearts to serve the Lord in every situation.  Thank you, Lord, that you know what is best.  I am grateful that you walk through each moment with me.  If God whispered in my ear everything that was going to happen and what I am to do with it, I have a feeling I would be more fearful than ever.  Bad things will happen in my life.  I'd rather just trust that God will see me through no matter what.
     In Jeremiah it says that God puts His words into Jeremiah's mouth so he does not have to fear not knowing what to say or do in each situation.  And then, Jeremiah 1:17-19 says, " 'Get yourself ready!  Stand up and say to them whatever I command you.  Do not be terrified by them, or I will terrify you before them.  Today I have made you a fortified city, an iron pillar and a bronze wall to stand against the whole land - against the kings of Judah, its officials, its priests and the people of the land.  They will fight against you but will not overcome you, for I am with you and will rescue you,' declares the Lord."  The Bible is so clear that nothing can thwart God's plan.  He has a plan to grow me in my faith and to use me to grow others in their faiths.  His plan will succeed!  Am I a willing vessel?  Do I choose to live in great expectation of what the Almighty will do?