The Savior says fear not
In the scriptures, the Lord extends the invitation “fear not” more than 80 times. Over and over, He assures His followers that they are not alone, that His peace is available even amid life’s storms. Jesus lovingly said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you. Not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27).
This is not just a comforting sentiment. It is a call to action, a declaration that peace is possible—even in uncertain times—if we anchor our lives in faith and trust in God. I value this wisdom and promise that comes from scriptures that are used in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It talks of this peace that comes when we heed another of His promises: “If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear” (Doctrine and Covenants 38:30). I see that not only as a reassuring promise, but as a commandment to not fear if we’re doing what we can to prepare for the curveballs of life.
Preparation, in this sense, is not simply about gathering resources. It is about cultivating a life of trust in the God who multiplied loaves and fishes, the God who stilled the sea with a word. It is about contributing what we can—our “loaves and fishes,” so to speak—and letting the God of Miracles take care of the rest.
Far too often, however, we let fear creep in and start driving the bus. Fear whispers, “You’ll never have enough,” “You’re on your own,” or “What if everything falls apart?” or “What if someone takes what I have?” And so, we panic-buy, hoard, or let anxiety rob us of the peace God wants to give. But Jesus didn’t call us to stock up on fear. He called us to prepare with faith, knowing that He can make what we have enough for our needs in every aspect according to His will and wisdom. And isn’t that what we want ultimately? His will and wisdom guiding our lives?
like the miracle of the loaves and the fishes, the Lord asks us to do our best and let Him make up the rest.
In the Gospels, we see this principle in action when the disciples worry over a hungry crowd and scarce resources. Jesus doesn’t join their panic. Instead, He asks for what they do have, blesses it, and feeds thousands (Matthew 14:13–21). The message is clear: bring what you have to the table—your faith, your trust, your best efforts—and let God magnify it.
Practical preparation is wise and necessary. Keeping a store of essentials is an act of stewardship and care for those we love. But preparation was never meant to become a burden of fear or an obsession. Instead, it is an act of trust. When we prepare wisely and faithfully, we align ourselves with God’s promises of peace and provision. Those 5 gallon buckets of wheat aren’t merely food. They are a sign of faith and obedience to the urgings of our Lord; like the blood of the lamb on our doorposts so that the destroying angel may pass over us.
As you fill your shelves, don’t forget to fill your heart with what matters most. Stock up on kindness, patience, and trust. Instead of hoarding fear, invest in hope. Instead of being driven by paranoia, let gratitude and generosity guide your steps. Because the truth is, when we approach preparedness with a heart full of faith, we free ourselves to experience peace. True peace as He promised us.
It’s okay to admit that fear sneaks in sometimes. As Brené Brown reminds us, vulnerability is the birthplace of courage. So, if you’ve been holding onto worry about the future, you’re not alone. But take that fear, lay it at the Savior’s feet, and ask Him to bless what you have—your loaves, your fishes, your heart—and multiply it for His purposes.
God is still a god of miracles.
Fear will always try to take the wheel, but it doesn’t belong in the driver’s seat. Let faith steer your efforts instead. Let love be your fuel. And remember, the God of Miracles doesn’t just calm storms—He calms hearts.
So, as you peruse social media or engage in conversations, ask yourself: is this promoting faith or fear? If it’s promoting fear, then it’s heading in the wrong direction. We are taught to fear God, but in that sacred translation, fear means love.
Prepare because you love God, and don’t let that love be tainted by fear. Let your preparation reflect your trust in Him and your hope for His promises. For when we prepare in love and faith, we not only find peace, but we become a light to others in a world desperate for calm amid the storm.
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