Different people suffer from different phobias, and no phobia makes much sense but the fear is real. This reminds me of another phobia that many of us have—the fear of the opinions and actions of others. How must it look to God when we think and act as if our well-being rests solely in the hands of people? How does it look to the One who is in control when we become so afraid of people that we panic and forget to trust entirely in Him? Well, the prophet Isaiah told us. He said that fearing the reproach of people is foolish because they are dying creatures who, like grass, are here today and gone tomorrow (51:12).   Yes, people can do us great harm, but the Lord has the last word.  Our future and everlasting well-being depend on Him and Him alone.

“Lord, help me to realise that You hold the now and future in Your hands.”

Faith can break the stranglehold of fear.

I was watching the flow of traffic from the 30^th floor of a building I was visiting, and I was fascinated by the maze of cars flowing four lanes abreast in opposite directions.  One of the cars seemed to have some engine trouble and was stalled in the middle of all that traffic.  I could see for blocks and I noticed several drivers switch into the same lane as the stalled auto, unaware of what was ahead.  Thinking they were gaining time, they were actually crossing into a lane that would only spell greater delay.  As we travel along life’s road, we do much the same thing, selecting the route that seems best – only to find that the temporary advance has led us into a course filled with delay and heartache.  Only when the Lord indicates a “stop” or a “change of lanes” or a “wait” should we gladly obey.

“Lord, help me look for direction from above, so that whatever I do and wherever I am, it is Your hand that leads me.”

The best way to know God’s will is to say “I will” to God.

Does it ever seem as if you cannot get through to God in prayer?  If so, you are not alone.  If you feel that God is hiding His face from you or that He is not listening, what should you do?

Recognise that your experience is not unique and does not mean you are an outcast from God’s redeemed family.

Seek out a fellow believer with whom you can share your feelings and ask for prayer (1 Thessalonians5:25)

Meditate on the truths of Scripture and what God has done for you in the past (Psalm 77:11-12)

Keep on praying in faith to your great God, no matter how silent heaven may seem (Luke 18:1)

Remember, our God is “the God who performs miracles.” (Psalm 77:14)

“Lord, help me seek Your face, believe Your Word and trust Your grace.”

When it comes to prayer, do not hang up – hang on!