For the Lord your God is living among you.
He is a mighty savior.
He will take delight in you with gladness.
With his love, he will calm all your fears.
He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.
– Zephaniah 3:17

You’ll hear me say time and again that my daddy provided an amazing example of the Father’s love. It was pure and genuine. It never wavered and kept me within boundaries that were strict but fair. He punished me, but the anguish he displayed in those times compelled me to do better so I didn’t force his hand. I can’t recall a day he didn’t hug me to his chest and say, “This is daddy’s heart.”

Because of that love, my only fear growing up was a highly unhealthy fear of the dark. I am a scaredy-cat with a wild imagination and, admittedly, should never have watched any horror movie ever. But daddy never made me feel silly about being afraid of the dark. Not even when I was older. Rather, he soothed me. And because I knew he loved me, I believed him when he said nothing would happen to me. His love quieted my fear. 

I’ve learned there’s a lot more to fear in this life than darkness. Things happen in broad daylight that will ruin lives and wreak havoc on sensibilities. Zephaniah 3:17 reminds me of this:

Because my Father takes delight in me, He quiets ALL my fears with His love.

And nothing separates us from God’s amazing love! My, what a God!

Be Kind. Love Well.

~ Tonda