Do Not Fear

“Fears are dying in Russia.” These words, written by Russian poet, Yevgeny Yevtushenko, shattered the night of December 18, 1962. Along with other words written by Yevtushenko, they were sung as part of the Thirteenth Symphony of Dmitri Shostakovich, as it debuted in Moscow.

In spite of government efforts to repress this event, the hall was packed. Afterward, the impact spread throughout the land. People knew that these men had dared to express their hidden thoughts.

The symphony’s fourth movement focused on common fears. Millions had lived through terrors while Josef Stalin ruled their land. Even after he died in 1953, fear still dominated daily life. Yevtushenko’s words were sarcastic, for everyone knew that fears had not yet been dying out. Millions were still paralyzed with fear.

People deal with fear in many ways. In ancient Judah, fear swept the land when a vast army threatened their kingdom. People were “alarmed.” But when confronted with this mighty force, King Jehoshaphat proclaimed a fast and led the people in seeking God.

God told him they should not be afraid or discouraged. Why? Because “the battle is not yours but God’s.” Jehoshaphat didn’t have to carry the burden. God was ready to intervene in the situation and bring victory.

Amid life’s trials, we can find ourselves being dominated by fear. Yet the key to victory, success, and peace is to seek God, commit our battles to Him, and trust Him completely.

As you face uncertainty and problems, ask God for wisdom. Commit your battles to Him. Don’t give in to fear, but trust Him!