Devotionals

A Hero in the Midst of Fear

by Denise Ferrell
07/11/16
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“Be not afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh.  For the Lord shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken.”  (Proverbs 3:25-26 / KJV)

During the 1960’s, Jim Nabors portrayed the lovable Private in “Gomer Pyle, USMC.”  In the episode entitled “The Show Must Go On,” Gomer is scheduled to sing in the Navy Relief Show in Washington, D.C., before a large audience which may include important dignitaries.  Stage fright, however, leaves him voiceless.

Sitting on the steps in front of the Lincoln Memorial, Gomer contemplates his predicament.  An older gentleman approaches and offers a listening ear.  Although understanding of Gomer’s dilemma, his newfound confidant tells Gomer he feels particularly sorry for those who are counting on him – his Sergeant, the band, the audience.  Pointing to the man sitting behind them, he reminds Gomer that Lincoln also had to make critical decisions and was probably frightened and unsure of himself on more than one occasion.  His fear, however, failed to stop him from doing what had to be done.

With a strained voice, Gomer contends, “But he was a great man, and I’m no hero.”  The older gentleman explains that his idea of a hero is “a man doing a job he has to do, the best he knows how.”  With thoughts of Lincoln’s courage and his own desire not to disappoint anyone, Gomer’s voice begins to return.  He ultimately gives a magnificent vocal performance onstage.                                                                                                                            

Lord, help us keep our confidence in You, especially in the midst of our fears.