December 26 | Bible in a Year: Haggai 1−2; Revelation 17

When You’re Afraid

When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.” Judges 6:12

READ Judges 7:8−15

I had a medical check-up scheduled, and although I’d had no recent health concerns, I dreaded the visit. I was haunted by memories of an unexpected diagnosis long ago. While I knew God was with me and I should simply trust Him, I still felt afraid.

I was disappointed in my fear and lack of faith. If God was always with me, why was I feeling such anxiety? Then one morning I believe He led me to the story of Gideon.

Called “mighty warrior” (Judges 6:12), Gideon was fearful over his assignment to attack the Midianites. Although God had promised him His presence and victory, Gideon still sought multiple reassurances (vv. 16−23, 36−40).

However, God didn’t condemn Gideon for his fear. He understood him. On the night of the attack, He assured Gideon again of victory, even giving him a way to assuage his fears (7:10−11).

God understood my fear too. His reassurance gave me the courage to trust Him. I experienced His peace, knowing that He was with me regardless of the outcome. In the end, my check-up was uneventful.

We have a God who understands our fears and who reassures us through the Scriptures and the Spirit (Psalm 23:4; John 14:16−17). May we worship Him in thankfulness, just as Gideon did (Judges 7:15).

By Karen Huang

What fears or challenges are you facing? How does it help to know that God is with you and wants to help you?

Dear God, thank You for not condemning my fears, but always reassuring me of Your presence. Help me to turn to You when I’m afraid and to learn to trust in You.

SCRIPTURE INSIGHT

At the time of the events in Judges 7, Gideon was still an obscure figure. The Midianite army had heard nothing of his military prowess, for he hadn’t yet accomplished anything. The angel’s words back in Judges 6 were key to his eventual success: “The Lord is with you” (v. 12). The enemy soldier’s dream and its interpretation were also direct evidence of God’s intervention in the life of His people Israel (7:13–14 ). But every step of the way, Gideon struggled to believe it. At last, upon hearing his name on the lips of the enemy, he gained full confidence (v. 15).