Fear-Interrupting Joy

“Do not be afraid… I bring you good news of great joy.” — Luke 2:10

The angels’ announcement of joy begins with a command to release fear. That order matters. The shepherds were not calm, prepared, or confident—they were startled and afraid. And yet joy was already on its way. God did not wait for fear to subside before speaking hope into the night.

Joy often enters our lives the same way—interrupting anxiety rather than replacing it later. Fear tells us to brace ourselves for what might go wrong. Joy whispers that God is already present, already active, already near. Even when the future feels uncertain, joy reminds us that we are not facing it alone.

Fear narrows our vision. Joy widens it.

Application:
Notice one fear that has been occupying your thoughts lately, and consciously entrust it to God.

Sentence Prayer:
Lord, speak Your joy into the places where fear has been loud.

40 Days of Gratitude Reminder:
Thank God today for one moment when fear loosened its grip on you.

Song:  Somewhere In My Memory – John Williams