WEEK ONE
EXAMINING OUR FEAR TO LIVE WITH FAITH

Sunday | February 26, 2023 | Fear of the Future

“For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

God knows. God plans. God desires a future for us free from harm. Yet, still, we fear what might come and what we can’t control. What tragedy will strike tomorrow? What awfulness lies ahead for those I love? The world is full of despair. Surely we can’t steer ourselves clear. Surely God can’t protect us from every harm.

Our faith calls us to trust God today, not fear for tomorrow. At this moment there is reason to rejoice. The sky is a radiant blue, filled with a bright hopeful sun. Flower bulbs wait eagerly beneath the earth preparing to break through the soil to delight us and the pollinating butterflies with colorful blooms.

Our lungs expand and contract with each blessed breath. Our hearts beat a steady rhythm in our chests. At this moment we are free to love and be loved.

Do not allow fear to taint this present moment, diverting our attention from that which is good and beautiful and worth cherishing. Trust what God desires for the future so we can live fully and faithfully in the present.

EXAMEN:
Sit with your fear of the future. Breathe. Notice thoughts and feelings that arise.

IMAGINE:
Imagine God speaking to you as a prophet, telling you about your future free from harm, a future full of hope. Picture this future. Allow yourself to feel the hope God promises.

PRAY:
Free me from fear, O God, so I can live with faith. Amen. Examining our fear to live with faith

2023 Lenten Devotions – Inward Work for Outward Living
A daily Lent devotional from Presbyterian Outlook that explores
the connection between internal contemplation and outward action.

“I belong to Westminster because of the splendid worship services, the caring pastor and the faith in action programs…. Westminster made me feel like a welcome part of the church family and allows me to share ‘time, treasure and talents.’ It is a very warm and inclusive congregation with great leadership.”