"Do Not Be Afraid..."

So, I stumbled across this video yesterday while planning a Bible lesson on the armor of God...

I almost (don't worry, Jules, almost!) cried because of how relevant this short message was for me, personally, and for the struggles that I have seen in the students in my 4th grade class. In the last two weeks, my cooperating teacher and I have dealt with bullying, intentional cheating, students struggling severely academically, and serious self-worth issues. I have personally dealt with not feeling like an adequate teacher, frustration in the classroom, and my own mind battle with fear and doubt. I've seen here that the Enemy really does try to attack a place and people that are shining Christ's light. But, praise the Lord we can fight back with His Word and promises. We can claim the victory already won because of His cross and resurrection.

So today, in words completely given by His Spirit, I showed the students this video and asked them what they were afraid of, or what lies they were believing. A few examples...

"Are you afraid that you don't have any true friends and you will feel lonely forever?" 


"Are you afraid to do your own work in school because you don't know if it will be good enough to get honor roll?" 


"Are you afraid of failure ? Do you feel like you have to meet someone else's expectations or they won't love you?" 


"Are you afraid to tell the truth because it might get you or someone you love in trouble?"


My challenge then for them and for myself (I was completely preaching to the choir today):

Praise God we don't have to live in fear, guilt, or lies. We don't have to be afraid of "not being good enough" because Jesus is enough. His cross has clothed us in righteousness. We are perfect in His sight, and nothing can separate us from His love. He has removed our sin as far as the East is from the West, and we can have fullness of joy in His presence. So, will you choose to live in the freedom of His promises or in the fear of lies? Do you choose braveness and boldness for Him or fear and cowardice? Will you believe the truth that set you free or the lies that hold you captive?

I share this not because they are my own great and glorious words, but because they are words that only the Lord could have spoken to my heart that I needed to hear and my students needed to hear. And, I pray that they will speak to your heart, too. Our Sword of the Spirit, His Word, is our strongest and truest weapon against the fear that comes in the lies of the Enemy.

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." -John 14:27-