I Am With You ∙∙

I Am With You ∙∙

Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. – Isaiah 41:10

Isaiah 41:10-13

Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

Behold, all those who are angered at you will be shamed and dishonored; Those who contend with you will be as nothing and will perish.

You will seek those who quarrel with you, but will not find them; those who war with you will be as nothing and non-existent.

For I am the LORD your God, who upholds your right hand, who says to you, Do not fear, I will help you.

 

The Early Struggles of Independence

 

The early days of the American War for Independence were marked by hardship and uncertainty. In 1777, following a series of defeats, the situation appeared dire. Philadelphia had fallen, and the brutal winter at Valley Forge loomed. Despite these hardships, George Washington remained resolute, sending messages of encouragement to his commanders. He wrote, “We should never despair, our situation before has been unpromising and has changed for the better, so I trust, it will again. If new difficulties arise, we must only put forth new exertions and proportion our efforts to the exigency of the times.”

Tumultuous Times in History

Throughout history, America has faced moments of deep fear and upheaval. Days like December 7, 1941, and September 11, 2001, stand as tragic milestones. Beyond single events, there have been extended periods of societal strain during which social, religious, and political norms have broken down under immense pressure.

In 1968, the nation seemed on the verge of collapse. Social unrest was widespread, driven by cultural clashes, racial tensions, and opposition to the Vietnam War. That year saw the assassinations of two prominent figures: Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and Democratic presidential candidate Robert Kennedy.

Kenneth T. Walsh observed, “In some ways, historians say, America nearly lost its mind and its soul. In other ways, historians argue, the nation reinvented itself and became a more tolerant, less-constrained place, more willing to let people express their individuality and challenge authority. Overall, the upheavals of that year, both positive and negative, made it clear that once social change reaches a critical mass, it can’t be stopped.”

He also noted, “It was a hinge point in history, one of the most consequential and tumultuous years in the American experience, and it changed the country forever.”

Despite the chaos, America came through the turmoil, though not without scars. The period left a legacy of distrust toward government and traditional institutions. Still, there was hope that brighter days could lie ahead.

Present-Day Challenges

The United States is currently facing a complex range of challenges across social, political, economic, and technological areas. Key issues include societal polarization, increasing lawlessness, political unrest, and the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

U.S. society is divided along ideological, political, racial, and cultural lines. This split has worsened because social media algorithms create echo chambers and spread misinformation, leading to a significant decline in trust in institutions. Recent surveys show that over 70% of Americans see the opposing political party as a threat, which increases social tensions.

The rapid rise of AI is transforming many industries, leading to job losses and increased automation. While AI increases productivity in tech-focused sectors, it also widens economic gaps, especially hurting low-income and rural communities where traditional jobs are shrinking.

A Steadfast Anchor

In the midst of uncertainty, one enduring truth prevails: the Father does not change. He stands firm and resolute, a steadfast anchor. His divine presence acts as a trusted compass, skillfully directing us to where He intends us to be.

In Deuteronomy 31:6, Moses promises, “Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.”

REFLECT & PRAY

Stanley reminds us, “Each of us will face fear at some point; it is what we do with it that matters most. We must claim our position as God’s children. We have the power to overcome fear when we apply His Word to our lives.”

Father, thank You for being ever-present with me. I need not fear. Embrace me with the security and comfort only You can provide.

INSIGHT

Understanding Fear: A Universal Struggle

Fear is a universal human experience, characterized by an emotional sense of dread or unease about potential threats or sorrow. It can arise from actual dangers or difficulties, as well as from perceived threats that may lack a rational basis. Although irrational fears are not real, they feel very real to those who experience them.

As humans, we are naturally fragile and susceptible to various fears. Table Talk that “We are fragile mortals, given to fears of every sort. We have a built-in insecurity that no amount of whistling in the dark can mollify. Often, the most significant fears we experience are not external but internal, erupting like volcanoes from the hidden corners of our wounded hearts and battered souls.

Fear Not

The Bible offers consistent reassurance to “fear not” and “not be afraid.” These phrases are woven throughout Scripture, serving as a reminder of God’s steadfast presence and care.

Zephaniah 3:16: “Do not be afraid, O Zion; do not let your hands fall limp.”

Every child of the King can find comfort in the steadfast presence of the Father. He fortifies His people in times of trial and adversity, guaranteeing that their adversaries will ultimately come to nothing.

Isaiah 41:10-13:

“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

For I am the LORD your God, who upholds your right hand, who says to you, ‘Do not fear, I will help you.’”

Creating Emphasis in Scripture

In Hebrew, emphasis is not created through bolding or underlining, but through word order and repetition. Important phrases are often repeated or strategically positioned at the start or end of a sentence to emphasize their significance.

In Isaiah 41:10-13, the phrase “Do not fear” is repeated, placed at both the beginning and the end of the passage. This repetition emphasizes the Father’s active involvement and presence during difficult times. While challenges are inevitable, fear need not be the response of children of the King.  

A Credo for God’s Children

Franklin D. Roosevelt famously proclaimed, “We have nothing to fear but fear itself.” While fear is a natural human response, the children of the King are encouraged to rise above it. The command “Do not fear” serves as a foundational tenet for all who follow Christ, symbolizing a deep-seated trust in God’s strength and presence.

The Father stands with us, bolstering us with His mighty hand. Though fear may occasionally visit, it need not take root in the hearts of those who place their trust in Him.

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© Dr. H 2026