Overcoming the Fear of Others 3-4-07

Good morning, Lord Jesus. Put Your thoughts in my mind and Your words in my heart. ... "The fear of others lays a snare, but one who trusts in the Lord is secure" (Proverbs 29:25). One of my friends gave a testimony of Your victory over his struggle with pornography last Sunday at our church. When he return to his seat, his wife stood and embraced him in such a declaration of forgiveness and love that all our church erupted in applause. The fear of what others might think almost kept him from sharing the hope of healing and the power of transformation through the blood of Your cross. But now that fear is forever broken. And shame is turned to honor. Now my friend helps others find their way to freedom through the healing power of Your deliverance as part of our Celebrate Recovery ministry on Thursday nights. We are never more safe and secure than when we follow You in trusting obedience to Your will. Lord, help me always be courageous to trust You whenever You lead me to share Your victories over my struggles. Transparent lives unafraid to speak of the power of the cross are an irresistible force to break down the hidden walls of pride and shame and set the captives free. As hope begets hope and courage begets courage, our stories of struggle become part of the stories of victory in the lives of others. Then the power of the fear of man is broken, and the joy of forgiveness and grace is released, as You turn the places of shame into places of honor. "Because their shame was double, and dishonor was proclaimed as their lot, therefore they possess a double portion; everlasting joy shall be theirs" (Isaiah 61:7). In Jesus' name I pray, Amen. Be encouraged today! In the Love of Jesus, Tommy Hays Friends, please join us if you can and pray for if you can't for our Celebrate Recovery ministry in Lexington addressing all forms of hurts, habits, and hang-ups on Thursday nights www.CRlexington.org To subscribe/unsubscribe, please send a note to me at Messiah Ministries -- MessiahMin@aol.com -- "Ministering the Healing Love of God ... Preparing the Way of the Lord." 2800 Tates Creek Rd; Lexington, KY 40502 www.messiah-ministries.org Daily Archives: www.morningbymorning.injesus.com