Dealing with Fear

Nehemiah had every reason to be afraid. As cupbearer to Persia’s king, he must have witnessed many high-level confrontations. He would have observed the potentially disastrous outcomes that could result from approaching the king. These thoughts would have been in his mind as he pondered the situation in Judah.

He had been devastated with the news that Jews living in Judah were “in great trouble and shame,” and that “the wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates are destroyed by fire.” As he wept and mourned, he turned to God, fasting and praying, pouring out his heart.

While serving as cupbearer, he could not hide his emotions. Sensing that something was wrong, the king asked, “Why is your face sad?”

Hearing these words, Nehemiah’s heart filled with fear. He had to respond, realizing that his future depended on what he would say. After he described conditions in Jerusalem, the king asked, “What are you requesting?” Options must have flooded his mind. In that moment, once again he turned to prayer.

Only then did he made a request, asking that the king sent Nehemiah to Judah “that I may rebuild it.” Further, he asked the king to give him letters to assure the cooperation of government officials and that he would have adequate timber for his building projects. These were bold requests but the king granted each of them. Nehemiah knew that “the good hand of my God was upon me.”

If we find fear capturing our hearts and minds, we need to remember Nehemiah’s example. Like him, we need to start focusing on God. Spending concentrated time in prayer, committing every situation to Him, particularly the things that make us afraid. Crying out for wisdom. Trusting Him to show us how to respond and what to say. Standing on the truths in His Word. Believing Him for favor.