Courtney Ellis tells of the time her family was driving down the highway when a deer darted out from the bushes, colliding with their car before her dad even saw the animal. The airbags deployed. The car was totaled. But fortunately no one was seriously hurt.

 

As the stunned family sat in the car gathering their wits about them, her dad suddenly shouted, “She’s going to blow! Get out of the car!” The family hastily fled the vehicle. Terrified, Courtney’s little sister took off running–down the centerline of the highway! What had been a serious situation instantly became critical.

 

Courtney’s dad took off in pursuit, finally grabbed the little girl in his arms and ran with her to the edge of the highway. Her little legs were still trying to run as he held her. Fright had become flight.

 

Isn’t that the reaction of many of us when we’re afraid? We panic. Sensing that there is nothing we can do to rescue ourselves, we try to run from the problem–instead of running to our heavenly Father. He is the one who can save us–often the only one who can get us out of the mess we’re in.

 

What fearful situation are you facing right now? Is your home in chaos? Do you have a child or grandchild who is running from God? Is it the “C” word– dreaded cancer? Run to your heavenly Father, not from Him.

 

Don’t wait another minute. Throw yourself into His arms and let Him comfort you as only He can. As the writer of Lamentations says, “This I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:21-23). Deuteronomy 31 adds, “It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”