Genesis 3:1-24; Job 4:1-5:27; Matthew 3:1-17
Be of good cheer… Matthew 9:2
Jesus Christ transforms fear into cheer. He begins with the cheer of God’s pardon: “Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you” (Matt. 9:2 NKJV). What relief to be delivered from God’s wrath! But as we navigate the storms of life, the Lord promises the cheer of His presence: “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid” (Matt. 14:27 NKJV).
But what about the fear of the unknown future? We experience the cheer of God’s purpose: “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33 NKJV). Yes, presently, things seem chaotic and evil seems to be unstoppable. But God wins! Be of good cheer, Christian, and share the good news with
those who are still held captive by the “fear of death” (Heb. 2:15). —Brian Cretney
Thine own dear Presence to cheer and to guide.
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside. —Thomas Chisholm