The most terrifying teacher in my school life was a relief teacher in Grade Three. She was the antithesis of the most beloved, gentle, beautiful teacher of my entire school life – the main teacher also of Grade Three, who The Terrifying relieved for when The Beloved went on maternity leave.
If I were to read the simple words “Come and sit down” in the tone of Mrs Terrifying, it would be in loud, harsh, pre-baked irritated impatience, requiring immediate compliance, filled with implied threat and be complied to by all but the very very stupid or exceptionally hard of hearing.
If I were to read those identical words “Come and sit down” in the tone of Mrs Beloved, it would read firmly, gently and evenly, be filled with invitation to join the fun and complied to by all but – well I don’t know who wouldn’t or didn’t because we all adored her.
This is utterly typical of how we read anything… we will infuse the written words with whatever understanding we have of that persons personality, tone and character. And if we don’t know them well, we will infuse and assume with our best guesses based on – not them, but ourselves.
If we read such words in the Scriptures as “do not fear” as an instruction – we will fail time and again – and each time we fail it will compound a sense of failure corresponding with the proportionate displeasure of The Almighty.
If we read those exact same words, “do not fear” as comfort, from a God who knows we will at times be afraid and wants to remind us that He is close – we can rest. No condemnation. No failure. Comfort. Encouragement. Presence. Chin lifted in love.
The next time you feel afraid – notice if you:
a) deny it in some sort of faith wierdness or
b) feel it – but assume the posture of failure because of it –
and maybe, just maybe – choose a different way.
c) recognise it – and lean in to His love and presence and comfort.
” I am holding you by your right hand
—I, the Lord your God—
and I say to you,
Don’t be afraid; I am here to help you.”
Isaiah 41:13