FEAR SHUTS DOORS
John 20:19-30

Despite all the powerful teachings of Jesus against fear and worrying, the disciples went ahead and locked themselves up in fear of the Jews. “Then, the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and said to them, “Peace be with you.” (John 20:19) While they were being locked up in the state of fear, Jesus showed up and declared peace. Jesus the Word of God is the Prince of peace. Where there is fear there is worrying and it is the indication of the absence of the Word. Is there any fear or worrying as a result of any situation that is surrounding you? Jesus, the Word of God is the one that you need to attend to your fear. Once, Martha had Jesus in her house yet she gave into worry. “And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. 42 But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” (John 10:41-42) Martha could have given herself into choosing the good part. The good part is sitting at the feet of the Lord while feeding on the word. The devil is never careless but always careful and on time to take advantage when a believer slips from letting the word has its place in every confronting situation.Inregards to the disciples there was no better solution to free them from the lock up of fear but the living word of God. The antidote of fear is faith. Faith in Jesus will cause peace to reign. After Jesus had spoken peace into His disciple’s life, the eyes of their mind were opened to see the mark of crucifixion. “When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.” (John 20:20) The mark registered gladness into the life of the disciples and the spirit of fear departed. If you will begin to see the marks of crucifixion and believe that the marks were registered on Jesus for us to be able to have life abundantly, the fear about all that is going on around the world will not have its place in your life. Rejoice if you have received and believe that Jesus went to the cross for you. The disciples came out of fear and they were able to testify to their seeing of Jesus because fear the vehicle of worry departed from them.

Prayer for today: Ask in the name of Jesus for the fear and worrying terminating word to sound in your direction as you face the challenges or situation that are having you locked up.