#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.

Then he continued, “Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them.

Daniel 10:12

Are you one of those people who like to know what’s around the next bend or do you enjoy surprises? Do you read a story page by page or jump to the end first so you will already have in mind how it turns out? We don’t often get an advance picture of the story we’re in but when we do, we should be prepared. How can we be prepared for any contingency, you ask? Let’s look to the life of Daniel.

From his first days as a captive in Babylon to his last as a governing official, Daniel’s single mindedness to trust the One True God never wavered. In verse 8 of the first chapter we read that as a youth Daniel had made up his mind not to defile himself with the king’s food. His conviction had been written on his heart from the very beginning of his captivity: to place and keep himself under the Lord’s authority regardless of the circumstances or possible outcome. The objective of his life’s purpose was written. He held fast to God.

Daniel encountered various fearful scenarios during his tenure under numerous ungodly kings. His anticipated fearless response in those times was anchored in God’s faithfulness. Setting my heart on gaining understanding and humbling myself before the Lord RIGHT NOW sets me in a place of fearless security for the fearful times to come. Dwelling on what is true and placing yourself under the authority and protection of God anchors my heart and mind to a Rock that is higher than I.

Vicki Johnson is a Pastor’s wife and part-time announcer at 1075Alive.FM who lives in Boyertown, PA. She is related to Queen Victoria by marriage, so she’s been told. She DOES love a proper cuppa’ tea now and again.