Today, I want to tell you a story about a woman whom God set free from fear …
“For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7
Norma (not her real name) was a missionary who delivered Bibles to believers and encouraged secret discipleship groups in a country where Christians were put in prison and tortured for their faith. That sounds very heroic, doesn’t it?
But Norma didn’t think of herself as a hero. In fact, she lived in fear that she would be tortured. So she made a deal with God. She said, “Lord, You know I am timid and fearful. You know that if I go to prison, I will not be strong enough-I’ll give up my faith. So I will keep doing Your work, but you have to keep me from being caught.”
Norma worked for years without being arrested, often having narrow escapes! But then, one day she was caught and taken to prison. All the way to her cold, dark, frightening cell, she argued with God, “You’re making a mistake! I am not strong enough for this!”
At midnight, Norma was called into the interrogation room-a small, timid, frightened woman. But as she stood in the bright lights before the interrogator, surrounded by soldiers, something happened. It was like she became a different person. Norma grew bold. She started preaching. She didn’t even recognize herself.
Finally, the interrogator ordered her back to her cell. He was worn out! This happened night after night, until one night the man came to Norma’s cell and asked her to help him become a believer too!
Just like us, Norma had no courage on her own. But God gave her courage the very moment she needed it. So, if you’re afraid of what tomorrow may bring, look up to Jesus. He is in that tomorrow, and he will give you everything you need when you get there.
If you need a boost of encouragement to face tomorrow, remember the words from “You Make Me Brave” by Bethel.
You make me brave
You call me out beyond the shore into the waves
You make me brave
You make me brave
No fear can hinder now the love that made a way
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