In the Face of Fear

Many years ago we took our boys to a large amusement park. The youngest at that time was four years old and quite excited about all the new experiences he would have. When we approached one particular ride, he begged to be allowed to ride it. He met the height requirement and assured me that if I went with him he would have a great time.

We got in line for the ride which was a large pirate ship that swung back and forth like a pendulum. We were seated and the ride began. With each swing the boat went higher and higher in the air. After just a few seconds, the look of terror on my son’s face caused me to think fast. I knew if we were to get through this experience with minimal trauma I had to get his mind off the movement. I quickly turned his face toward mine and said, “It will be okay, I am here with you. Look at my eyes, don’t look away.”

I kept holding his face gently in my hands, talking to him and encouraging him to keep his eyes focused on my face and nothing else for the duration of the ride. We finally came to a stop and he threw his arms around me and buried his head in my shoulder. We had survived the giant ship ride and would live to tell about it.

That picture can help us understand how our Heavenly Father longs to comfort us when we’re afraid. He tells us to look to Him and not at the things that frighten us. If we will call to Him and focus on His face He will deliver us. If we will trust Him, He will never fail us.

Look into His eyes and rest in His comforting arms.

 “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10 (NASB)

“Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice, and be gracious to me and answer me. When You said, “Seek My face,” my heart said to You, “Your face, O Lord, I shall seek.” Do not hide Your face from me, do not turn Your servant away in anger; You have been my help; do not abandon me nor forsake me, O God of my salvation!” – Psalm 27:7-9 (NASB)