You are not alone.

A hand from a trusted friend rests on your shoulder. In a moment of dread, sadness, or fear the touch soothes and comforts. The hand’s presence communicates, “Here I am. I am with you. It’s going to be okay.”

From the heavens, God’s hand places Words in the hearts of souls who have placed their trust in him. His Spirit comforts and re-assures. He tells us, “Do not be afraid, for I am with you.”

When God commissions his people to do something on his behalf we often tremble and call out to him in prayer. God assures us that he listens, understands, and provides.

His promises become intensely real when those who trust in him step way outside of their comfort zones to fulfill what God has planted in their heart to do.

“A hand touched me and set me trembling on my hands and knees. He said, “Daniel, you who are highly esteemed, consider carefully the words I am about to speak to you, and stand up for I have now been sent to you.” And when he said this to me, I stood up trembling. Then he continued, “Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them.”

Daniel 10:10-12

Evangelism in today’s world may feel like walking into a lion’s den. Out of thankfulness for what God has already done for them in Christ, believers may have a strong desire to exercise their faith but find it too difficult to take that step into something that is unknown or unfamiliar. We may call out to God for help but wonder if he really listens or understands our fears or feelings of inadequacy.

Because personal evangelism is so unfamiliar with many faithful, redeemed Christians, we often refrain from proclaiming because we don’t want to blow it or say something wrong.

Yet, we really don’t have a choice.

We believe, therefore we speak, despite the perceived consequences of being thrown into a lion’s den of rejection and disgrace.

We believe, and choose not to speak, ensnared in a den of fear that keeps believers silent.

God’s time of grace has been extended to the world. He is allowing disruption, disharmony and disillusion to occur at frightening levels. With people struggling with security and hope without faith in Christ, the author of peace, love, and salvation desires to be known. At this point in our world’s history, Christians may communicate the reasons for the hope that they have in Christ to willing hearts and listening ears.

And you don’t think that the devil is aware of that?

“Do not be afraid,” God promises, because he goes with us.

The same power that moves mountains, equips believers to step out in faith and directly into a spiritual battleground. Does it feel like a hopeless battle or stepping into a lion’s den with dire consequences? Then, that is a sign that you are on the front lines. The enemy succeeds when Christian believers have fallen into a lair to keep them silent.

God assures his children to not be afraid. They can safely be on the offensive to engage the enemy. He provides us with an arsenal of His grace. This includes a shield of faith, a breastplate of righteousness, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit. (Ephesians 6:10-17)

But there is something more profound that God provides for believers who share God’s Word with others.

I enjoy action movies. When the hero is trapped under heavy fire he will ask his partners to “cover” him while he moves to a strategic position. While running out into the open, his partners will open fire and empty their weapons to distract the enemy or keep them from firing back. Without providing cover, our hero becomes an easy target.

“For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”

Psalm 91:11

There are times in the Bible when God opens another dimension for his servants to see and hear angels. They are God’s agents who acts as messengers and warriors. They seem to be engaging demonic forces so that believers can be placed in strategic positions to further God’s kingdom by proclaiming his Word.

Whenever believers step out in faith to share their faith with others, the Lord will command his angels to provide them with cover.

Do not be afraid, God tells us, you are not alone. I am with you.

I have you covered!

PRAYER:

O Lord, thank you for your grace and mercy. Please forgive me of my sins and renew a right spirit within me that fully trusts your promises. When I feel weary, you are strong. When I feel anxious, you grant me peace. When I feel despondent, you renew my hope. Fill me with your presence and help me to step out in faith. Allow me to recognize that you have set me apart to engage the world with your grace. Allow me to understand that I am never alone. With that knowledge, I can do all things because of your presence in me. I desire to be your messenger of salvation. Help me to be cognizant of opportunities and step out in faith to proclaim your Good News to the world.  Amen.