Free from fear

"And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love." Romans 8:38 NLT

After Wendy Martinez, 35, was brutally killed by a random and unprovoked attack while out running on the evening of September 18 in her Washington, D.C., neighborhood, her friends and family started a campaign to increase safety awareness for runners and anyone walking alone. Doris Martinez, 38, who didn't know Martinez, said the tragedy caused her to be more aware of her surroundings and to take extra precautions when out running, such as carrying her cell phone and pepper spray. But giving into the fear is not an option for her, "I found a new beautiful path today and enjoyed every moment. I don’t want to live my life in fear and deprive myself of those miles. Our time is short, and we need to live it to the fullest.”

And you know, Doris is right. Life is indeed short and should be lived to the fullest. But in a world that seems to grow increasingly more dangerous by the day, many people, including Christians, are paralyzed by fear. They are hesitant to venture outside their neighborhoods and church walls to share Christ for fear of rejection, bodily harm, pain and a variety of other reasons. But guess what? We don't have to live that way! The Bible tells us that "nothing can ever separate us from God's love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow..."

Do you understand what that means my friend? It means that you and I don't have to be afraid of anything this world can do to us! And while we still need to take measures to be safe, we should not allow fear to keep us from doing the things God has called us to - whether that be going across town or across the ocean to share the Good News - because "not even the powers of hell can separate us from God's love."

Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminder that nothing can ever separate us from your love. Help us to truly grasp that truth so that we could live life to the fullest... serving You without fear however, whenever, and wherever You call us. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

You never let go - Matt Redman
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NM14VZVu0og