"And do not fear their intimidation, and do not be troubled."

-1 Peter 3:14

As political correctness continues to gain greater acceptance and power, it can become intimidating to us who know the Lord. Lind writes, “For the first time in our history, Americans have to be fearful of what they say, of what they write, and of what they think. They have to be afraid of using the wrong word, a word [considered] offensive or insensitive, or racist, sexist, or homophobic…” Bray would add, “…we suspect that when the crunch comes, many in the leadership will do what they do best - run and hide (or as they would say, “pray about it”). Spinelessness has long been the mark of the true evangelical, and we must expect that it will be just as much in evidence this time around as it has been in the past.”

Over 50 times in the Bible, we find these words, “Do not fear.” Abraham, Moses, Joshua, David, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and the 12 disciples all heard these words given to them in troubling times. When the Lord warned the disciples that they would face intimidation, hatred, and even death, three times He said to them, “… do not fear.” At times like this, which could get even worse, we must cling to His words, for He has said, “For I am the Lord your God, who upholds your right hand, Who says to you, ‘Do not fear, I will help you. ‘” Be encouraged!

References: 1 Peter 3:14; William Lind, Gerald Bray, cited in That Hideous Strength; Matthew 10: 16 - 31; Isaiah 41:13