“Then one who looked like a man touched my lips, and I opened my mouth and began to speak. I said to the one standing before me, ‘I am overcome with anguish because of the vision, my lord, and I feel very weak. How can I, your servant, talk with you, my lord? My strength is gone and I can hardly breathe.’ Again the one who looked like a man touched me and gave me strength. ‘Do not be afraid, you who are highly esteemed,’ he said. ‘Peace! Be strong now; be strong.’ When he spoke to me, I was strengthened and said, ‘Speak, my lord, since you have given me strength.’” Daniel 10:16-19

Lord God, There is much about my future that makes me shake and tremble. There are times when I don’t really want to come out and face the day because of what I’m up against. In those moments, Father, send me your Spirit to remind me of Daniel and how your angel comforted and strengthened Daniel. Send me your Spirit to remind that you are present with me through your Word and Sacraments. Remind me once again what I mean to you and how valued I am by you. When the war is long, remind me how your angels’ hosts have thrown down the evil one by the blood of the Lamb. The Lamb has conquered Satan and all his evil hosts. On top of all of this, you have left for me your revelation of yourself and of my life in your Word. You have not told me all that could be known, but you have told me what you want me to know. So, give me a fuller and more complete understanding of your Word so that I might live for you today. Today, Lord, give me courage and strength to stand up and live for you. You have redeemed me and I am yours. You have conquered for me and I will not be defeated. I am valued and esteemed by you. Grant full peace to my broken and fearful heart. Amen.

So, do not be overwhelmed by what is coming in your life. Do not be afraid of what you’re up against. Do not fear. Rather, be at peace because your God holds your future in his hands and has given you the assurance that you will not be overcome.