Article October 1, 2013

“Fear thou not”

Originally published in the July 12, 1941 issue of The Christian Science Monitor

One who served as a soldier in the World War recalls, among many experiences in which he was divinely protected in dangerous situations, a day when, on a mission that necessitated his passing through a patch of woods, he was suddenly impelled to stop. It was as though a voice had spoken to him so positive was the warning. It seemed to say, “Leave this place and go by some other way.” He obeyed, and was thereby saved from destruction.

There are many passages in the Bible which bring comfort to the fearful. In the sixth chapter of II Kings we read that when Elisha, the prophet, was surrounded by a host of the enemy bent on capturing him, his terrified servant asked (6:15), “Alas, my master! how shall we do?” Elisha replied with calm assurance (6:16), “Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them.” Then the prophet prayed (6:17), “Lord, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see;” and the young man beheld the mountain “full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.” Thus were revealed the spiritual forces which were present to save and protect them. And Elisha was able to avert the plan of the enemy by his complete reliance upon God's guidance and protection.