Fear and worries: Fear of loss – 16 February 2022

Loss. I think it is one of those things in life that we all wish we could avoid. And the fear thereof is one of those emotions that hides deep within one’s innermost being. We do not necessarily talk about it, but it follows us wherever we go.

That fear also looks different for each one of us. And during the past two years, it became a greater reality for some of us than what we had expected, that fear that constantly knocked on the door because suddenly the world, almost overnight, changed into a very insecure and fickle place. Even though it feels as though things are slowly but surely returning to normal, we still live with a degree of insecurity and fear.

What has started to scare you?

That you will lose loved ones to the grave? That you will experience a salary reduction? That you will lose your job? That you will no longer be able to afford your bond repayment or car instalment because everything has simply become so expensive? Or perhaps that you need to tell your children that you will no longer be able to afford their extra-curricular activities?

These are all valid fears when we are confronted with these sorts of things, it may mean that we need to make sense of it anew and that is never an easy or simple process. Along with it, we often also have to endure pain and heartache.

In Psalm 34, David testifies to the greatness of God and that God had redeemed him from the things that he had feared. In verse 9 he says, “You who belong to the Lord must fear and serve Him because the people who serve Him always have everything they need.”

In spite of our fears, we need to continue to pray for God’s protection and guidance in our lives. But I believe with my whole heart that, indeed, this means that God will uphold us during the difficult times and strengthen us. We will not be alone.

Prayer: Almighty Father, we live in a world in which we are so often confronted by loss and pain. Help me not to live in fear, calm my heart when the worries threaten to overwhelm me and please protect me and my loved ones. Amen