(Originally posted to Facebook 19-Jan-2021)

Often in the scriptures we are told to “be of good cheer.” Of particular note, when Jesus walked on the water during a storm, the apostles were at first afraid, thinking they saw a ghost. “But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.” (Matthew 14:27)

Often in these tumultuous times – with pandemics, lockdowns, and political unrest buffeting us from every side – we may become discouraged or afraid. At these times we should remember the Lord’s instruction to “be of good cheer” and also to “be not afraid.”

Notice these are not suggestions or recommendations. These are statements of instruction. God might just as well have said: “Thou shalt be of good cheer,” and “Thou shalt be not afraid.”