Let Nothing You Dismay

“God rest ye merry gentlemen
Let nothing you dismay
Remember Christ our Savior
Was born on Christmas Day
To save us all from Satan’s pow’r
When we were gone astray
Oh tidings of comfort and joy
Comfort and joy
Oh tidings of comfort and joy”
-God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Phil 4:6-7

God did not give us a spirit of fear or worry. We can be reminded of what was told to the Israelites in Deuteronomy 1:21, “See, the Lord your God has set the land before you. Go up, take possession, as the Lord, the God of your fathers, has told you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”

God has given us a hope that can only be found in Him. God is our refuge of strength during times of trouble and provides rest for our weary souls. During all seasons, we can turn to Psalm 23 to be reminded of the promise He gave to restore our souls and lead us “beside quiet waters”.

Even when we do go astray, step off of His path and follow our own instead, God still loves us and will never leave us. Isaiah 53:6 compares us to sheep that wander away from their shepherd: “We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.” We shall not be dismayed.

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

PRAYER

Lord, help me to not be dismayed when things look bleak. Help me remember to go to You in prayer and be strengthened by Your comfort and joy. Amen.