May 24: Faith Over Fear

Theme: Trusting God’s Timing

Ann Marie Roach
Ephesus SDA Church

Scripture: 1 Peter 1:7 (KJV)

"That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ."

It used to be normal for my mouth to speak before my mind fully processed the weight of my words. I clearly remember the day my friend and prayer partner told me I should rejoice in the midst of trials. I looked at her as if she were speaking a foreign language. I thought to myself, how could God possibly want me to be happy about what I’m going through?

Despite growing up in the church, I had never truly grasped the Scriptures or believed them. Looking back, I see now that Isaiah was speaking directly to me when he wrote:

"Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts." (Isaiah 28:9 KJV)

I was in church every Sabbath, but I had no real relationship with God. That realization hit me hard. It made me pause and reflect deeply on my life. I knew I needed a change, and I asked God for it. What I didn’t realize was just how tumultuous that change would be.

As I began to dig into the Word more intentionally, I craved spiritual substance. I was hungry for truth, and God began to wean me off the “milk.” Still, I didn’t fully understand what it meant to live by faith over fear, not until 2021.

That year was filled with uncertainty. I was faced with a life-altering decision that shook my faith to its core. Should I go against my deep spiritual convictions just to keep my job? Many people around me, including friends, family, and colleagues, presented strong arguments for the more “rational” choice. It made sense on paper, but not in my spirit.

I’ll never forget the moment my mother said, “I feel sad that you are returning home.” Though spoken in love, her words cut deep, leaving me more conflicted than ever.

As time closed in like a noose, I chose to trust God’s direction and return home to Jamaica. It wasn’t easy. I wrestled with disappointment, anger, and confusion. But eventually, I surrendered. I packed up, shipped my belongings, and leaned hard into God’s promises. I told the Lord, “If You’re calling me to return home, I trust You to handle everything left unfinished.”

The story of Ezra reminded me that opposition doesn't derail God's plans it often confirms them. Enemies of Israel wrote to the king trying to stop the rebuilding of Jerusalem, but God used their complaints to fulfill His purpose. He even moved the king’s heart to support the very work they tried to halt.

God did the same for me. Doors opened in ways I never expected. I realized it wasn’t my efforts or qualifications that kept me afloat; it was all Him. He wanted me to see that clearly.

Ultimately, faith triumphed over fear because I chose to surrender. I let go and let God. As God has done and continues to do in my life, He can do the same for you. He may not answer at your timing, but when he does, I can assure you, it will be in your best interest. Trust His words. Give Him your fears and anxiety today.

Prayer: 

Dear God,  Today I thank You not just for the blessings, but for the trials that continue to shape me. As Pastor Elizabeth Mokoro so wisely said, “The day you start adding to the ranks of God, you will encounter more challenges. But tribulations are never unnecessary, and trials are not fruitless.” Lord, in You alone can we find the strength to overcome fear. That strength comes as we dig deep into Your Word and trust Your promises. You have not given Ann Marie, or anyone who will read this, a spirit of fear, but of love, of power, and of a sound mind. May we believe Your report, for it is always true. Holy Spirit, increase our faith. Help us choose faith over fear every time. In Jesus’ name I pray,

Amen!