#FEARLESS365 is a yearlong study of God’s commandment to us to live without fear. For 365 days, we will focus on one scripture and volunteers from all over the world will share their personal thoughts and what God has shared with them on the specific verse. For more info… go here.

Enjoy! ~Nichole

“But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.”

1 Peter 3:14, NIV

Peter’s goal in writing to his audience was to help them live for God in the hostile world of conflict and suffering. He gives a lot of attention addressing important aspects of our relationships, both with those in and outside the church. This passage of direction and encouragement finds itself at the end of a lengthy discussion on how Christians are to relate to others: the family household as husbands, wives, household slaves, and the church in general. Additionally, the misunderstanding and persecution they experience from unbelievers is here in focus; even though as followers of Christ they have set themselves to do good, they experienced persecution and suffering. However, the good news is that God is aware of the needs of his people; he sees their circumstances in life and hears their prayers.

What is Peter’s word of encouragement here? Do not be afraid! Passages that come before and after verse fourteen, remind us to focus our attention on the example of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. This will equip us to handle the hostilities in this world with a disposition of comfort, faith, and fearlessness.

This word of exhortation “Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened” appears to be a reference to a passage of Scripture found in Isaiah 8:11, 12. Here God calls Isaiah to have a different disposition from the people of his nation. He was not to walk in fear as they did. This is the key to applying this passage in 1 Peter to our own lives. Furthermore, Isaiah is called to look to God for hope, strength and, salvation. No matter how bad life gets or what armies may march against us. God gives us hope and confidence and faith for the future. Don’t be afraid of the bad news everyone else is crying over. Give praise to God. Trust in him. He is your unmovable rock, your sure foundation in times of trouble and distress and, your soon coming Savior!

John Bracamontes is a Molecular Biologist and Bible Teacher who enjoys playing his 12 string guitar. He lives in St. Louis, MO.