Do Not Be Dismayed 

By Rev. Lonnie C. Crowe 

We have all walked through stressful times and seasons. Often our faith has faltered in the fiery face of fear. Most of us are familiar with Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”  

The Glossary of the One New Man Bible shares in depth clarity to the phrase “Do not in any way be awed! Do not be dismayed.” "The Hebrew negative command is very powerful, with no direct English equivalent. It is even stronger than saying, “Do not even dare to think about...! Know that faith in God is what you need to replace the fear and dismay. Although usually translated as “fear not", the Hebrew means to revere, to hold in awe. There is only One Whom we are to revere, to hold in awe and we are not to be in terror of Him, but to give the respect and honor to which He is due. Do not be awed by the size and strength of the enemy, but respect and revere the awesome God we serve.”