Fear can overwhelm us when we forget whose hand holds the storm. Dr. Michael Youssef reminds believers that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control—and that His presence is our fortress in every trial.
Charles Spurgeon once told the story of a ship captain whose wife panicked during a violent storm. When the captain pointed a sword toward her chest, she laughed—because she trusted the hand that held it. His reply revealed the heart of faith: “Neither am I afraid of a storm in the hand of my heavenly Father.”
In this episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef points believers to the security found in God’s sovereign care. Fear is real—even the apostle Paul admitted to “fears within” while facing conflict, hardship, and rejection. Yet Paul also knew the comfort of God, who strengthens the downcast and often refreshes His people through His Word, His presence, and the encouragement of faithful friends.
When fear rises, the answer is not denial or panic—it is trust. God has not given His children a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control. His love brings hope to the heart, His presence steadies the soul, and His salvation becomes the rock beneath our feet. No matter how fierce the storm, the believer can rest in this Truth: the storm is never outside the hand of the Father.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I need Your words of encouragement today. The world is pressing in on me, but I know You are in total control. I thank You that Your perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18). Help me to comfort others with the comfort I receive from You in this season. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
“The Lord upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down” (Psalm 145:14).
Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef’s sermon Never Give Up, Standing for the Gospel: WATCH NOW | LISTEN NOW