“Zacharias was troubled when he saw the angel, and fear gripped him. But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your petition has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will give him the name John” (Luke 1:12-13).
You too would be afraid. We say we believe things and then, if they were to actually happen, our unbelief is exposed. The Lord hears every prayer. Our God knows us better than we know ourselves. He will do what He has determined, but we have the ability to deny reality – and we do – so when He actually shows up, we are uncertain and afraid. Be faithful and learn to trust the Lord at all times.
Lord, You know that I have plenty of doubts and fears. Help me so that I move beyond them and into the way of life that understands that You truly are with me each step of the way. Guide me in Your goodness and mercy to overcome my misgivings and if You send an angel, move me beyond my fear to accept that in many and various ways You do speak to me each day.
Lord Jesus, You have come and You call for me to abide in You as You will abide in me. When I encounter what I do not understand, help me to be both discerning and trusting. You know what is coming into my life. Prepare me to receive Your instruction and listen as You speak. Aid me to understand that You hear every petition I speak and that Your answer is always for my good because of the Father’s steadfast love. Amen.
