Zephaniah 3:16-17 – On that day it shall be said to Jerusalem: “Fear not, O Zion; let not your hands grow weak. The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.”

Lord God, it is astounding how often you say to your people, “Fear not.” Again and again and again you say it to your people. Again and again and again you help them know. In any and every kind of circumstance you tell them not to be afraid. When we are afraid of danger and things that threaten us, you say, “Fear not. I will protect you.” When we are worried about what the future holds, you say, “Fear not. I hold the future in my hands.” When we are afraid of the work that is front of us and worried about how it will turn out, you say, “Fear not. I am with you.” Again and again you say things just like this to us so our hearts would rest in your presence and promise. Lord God, let the things that make you happy relieve our fear. You rejoice over us with loud singing! You are glad to call us yours. You are filled with joy to protect us, to provide for us, to be with us. You are head over heels for us! Let these truths wash all our fear away as we meditate on you, O God. There is no god like you. Amen.