“The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.”  Matthew 28: 4 NIV

The angel of the Lord appeared at the tomb of Jesus Christ and his appearance was such that the guards that were supposed to be guarding the tomb (so that no one could steal the body) became like dead – stupefied, helpless, totally incapacitated for action.

Imagine the amazing experience the guards would have had if they had overcome their fear and interacted with the angel. They would have heard of the great news of Jesus not being in the tomb. I imagine the angel telling them. “Hey, guys, your job’s done. You don’t need to guard the tomb anymore. The inevitable has happened. The tomb is empty.”

Instead the guards weren’t able to overcome their fear or move past it and they flopped like fish out of water and fell like dead. Okay, maybe they didn’t flop like fish but “they shook and became like dead men”.

The guards must have thought that this angel who appeared like lightning was going to kill them, wound them, perhaps ridicule them. “Ha, ha, ha, you guys think you can prevent me from removing this stone? Watch me.”  Whatever the case, the guards missed out.

How many times has fear prevented you from having an impacting, supernatural experience with God?  Will you consider pushing through in spite of the fear? Being strong and courageous?

Courage is defined as the ability to do something that frightens one; strength in the face of pain or grief. Being courageous does not eliminate fear; it conquers it. 

Are you  missing out on a life-changing experience because of your fear?  Are  you missing out on life’s greatest joys because of lack of courage?  What has God wanted you to do that fear is keeping you from doing?

Pray Isaiah 41:9-11, 2 Timothy 1:7

Heavenly Father, Thank you because you have made me your child through my faith in your Son, Jesus Christ. You have chosen me. I will not fear because you are with me. I will not be dismayed because You are my God. You will strengthen me and help me. You will uphold me with your righteous right hand – keep me blessed and protected! You will take care of those who want to harm me.

Thank You, Lord, for you have given me power,  love and self discipline!

I will not fear because You, O God, are with me! I am not alone.