By the Way: Do not be afraid – you are not alone

By Scott Raible on May 31, 2025.

In a world filled with uncertainty, fear, and constant change, it’s no surprise that people are searching for comfort, strength, and peace. According to YouVersion, the most searched Bible verse of 2023 was Isaiah 41:10, and in 2024, it was Philippians 4:6. These verses are more than just popular-they’re powerful. They show us what our hearts long for most: assurance that we are not alone, and that there is peace available even in the chaos.

Isaiah 41:10 says:

“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.”

What a promise! God is not distant or indifferent. He sees your anxiety. He knows your fears. And what does He say? Do not be afraid, for I am with you. You are not walking through life alone. You are not facing your struggles in isolation. God is not only beside you-He is upholding you. He is your strength when you feel weak, your comfort when the world seems cold.

Now let’s look at Philippians 4:6, which says:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

Here, we are reminded that anxiety is real, but it’s not the end of the story. Paul doesn’t just say, “Don’t worry.” He gives us a way to move forward-through prayer. When anxiety threatens to overwhelm us, we are invited to bring every worry to God. Not just the big ones. Not just the ones that sound spiritual. Every situation.

Notice, too, that Paul includes thanksgiving. Why? Because giving thanks shifts our focus from what we fear to who God is. When we thank God, we remember His past faithfulness, and that gives us strength to trust Him with the future.

These two verses together are like anchors in a storm. One promises that God is with us and will strengthen us. The other shows us how to respond – with prayer, trust, and gratitude.

So today, whether you’re facing family struggles, financial pressure, health concerns, or simply the weight of a busy and uncertain world, remember this: You are not alone. God is with you. He will uphold you. And He invites you to bring all your burdens to Him in prayer.

Let’s be people of peace in a world of worry. Let’s be people of prayer in a time of pressure. And most of all, let’s be people who trust that our God is truly with us, always.

Scott Raible has served as an ordained minister in Medicine Hat for the past twenty years, and started Christian radio in Medicine Hat with Alive 99.5 and was an announcer and music director with 93.7 Praise FM. Scott can be reached at scottraible@gmail.com

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