My People Shall Never Be Ashamed

The promise of God in Joel 2:26 is one of the most profound assurances of His covenant faithfulness: “And ye shall eat in plenty, and be satisfied, and praise the name of the LORD your God, that hath dealt wondrously with you: and my people shall never be ashamed” (Joel 2:26). This statement is more than a promise of material provision; it is a declaration of divine security, spiritual honor, and eternal assurance for those who belong to God. To be “ashamed” in Scripture means to be confounded, put to dishonor, or found without refuge when trial or judgment comes. God pledges that those who are His will never be abandoned, dishonored, or left without a defense. Let us carefully explore the spiritual principles that uphold this promise.

1. Looking Unto God in Prayer – No Shame (Psalm 34:5; 1 Kings 18:22–40)

“They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed” (Psalm 34:5). Shame flees when the believer’s eyes are lifted heavenward. Elijah, in the contest at Mount Carmel, looked to heaven and prayed, and fire fell (1 Kings 18:36–38). The prophets of Baal were left disgraced, but Elijah was honored before all. When we lift our faces to God in trust, He vindicates His people.
To pray is to transfer confidence from self to God. Those who trust in their own strength shall be brought low (Jeremiah 17:5), but those who look to God shall shine with heavenly light and never be ashamed.

2. Waiting Upon God in Faith – No Shame (Isaiah 49:23; Luke 2:25; Isaiah 40:31)

“…for they shall not be ashamed that wait for me” (Isaiah 49:23).
Simeon, in Luke 2:25–32, patiently waited for the Consolation of Israel. He did not die until he beheld Christ, the Savior. Waiting upon God is not wasted time—it is strengthening time. “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31).
Those who run ahead of God often stumble in confusion, but those who wait shall be vindicated. Waiting produces patience (James 1:3–4), and patience preserves the soul from shame.

3. Walking in God’s Commandments – No Shame (Psalm 119:6, 98–100)

“Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments” (Psalm 119:6). True honor is tied to obedience. To respect God’s commandments is to order one’s steps by His Word (Psalm 119:133). The obedient believer gains wisdom greater than enemies, teachers, and elders (Psalm 119:98–100).
Shame comes to those who despise God’s Word (Jeremiah 6:10–15), but those who tremble at His Word (Isaiah 66:2) find lasting honor.
4. A Heart Sound in God’s Statutes – No Shame (Psalm 119:80; Isaiah 38:1–5; Song of Solomon 4:7)

“Let my heart be sound in thy statutes; that I be not ashamed” (Psalm 119:80).
Soundness of heart: purity, sincerity, and wholeness before God, guards against shame. King Hezekiah, though stricken with disease, prayed with a perfect heart, and God extended his life (Isaiah 38:1–5).
The Bride of Christ is called “all fair, my love; there is no spot in thee” (Song of Solomon 4:7). When the church walks in holiness, she has nothing to fear at the appearing of Christ (1 Thessalonians 5:23).

5. Believing in Christ – No Shame (Romans 9:33; Romans 10:11)

“…whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.” (Romans 9:33; cf. Isaiah 28:16). Faith in Christ is the foundation of boldness. Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him for righteousness (Genesis 15:6; Romans 4:3). Believers who trust in Christ’s death and resurrection stand secure, for “the just shall live by faith” (Romans 1:17). Unbelief leads to confusion, but faith in Christ ensures that the believer is never confounded in time or eternity.

6. Suffering for the Gospel – No Shame (2 Timothy 1:12; 2 Timothy 2:12; Romans 1:16)

Paul boldly declared: “For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed…” (2 Timothy 1:12). Shame often comes when affliction is interpreted as defeat. But in Christ, suffering becomes honor. Paul endured imprisonments and persecutions, yet declared: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ” (Romans 1:16). The believer’s confidence lies in knowing that God keeps what is committed to Him until the day of Christ.

7. Abiding in Christ – No Shame (1 John 2:28; John 15:1–5)

“…abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming” (1 John 2:28).
Abiding is the secret of fruitfulness. A branch separated from the vine withers, but the abiding believer bears much fruit (John 15:5). To remain in Christ is to remain safe, fruitful, and confident, awaiting His return without shame.
Those who live carelessly may be ashamed at His appearing (Matthew 25:1–12), but those who remain steadfast in Him will rejoice.

8. God’s Restoration – No Shame (Joel 2:25–26; Psalm 125:1–2)

Joel ties the promise of “no shame” with divine restoration: “And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten…” (Joel 2:25).
The shame of barrenness, loss, or judgment is replaced with the joy of abundance. Just as God reversed Israel’s devastation by the locusts (Exodus 10:5), He restores wasted years in the lives of His people.
Thus, His people “shall be as mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth forever” (Psalm 125:1).

Conclusion: The Eternal Security of God’s People

God’s declaration in Joel 2:26 is not empty poetry but eternal truth. His people, who:
• Look to Him in prayer,
• Wait upon Him in faith,
• Walk in His commandments,
• Keep a sound heart,
• Believe in Christ,
• Suffer for the Gospel without fear,
• Abide in Christ,
• And trust in His restoring power—
shall never be ashamed. Shame belongs to the ungodly who reject Him (Daniel 12:2), but the righteous shall shine with everlasting honor. Therefore let us hold fast to this promise with boldness: “They that trust in the LORD shall be as mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth forever. As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the LORD is round about his people from henceforth even forever” (Psalm 125:1–2). Amen! Hallelujah!! !!!
His people shall never be ashamed. Hallelujah! Amen.

© 2025 Green Olives Christian Books. All rights reserved.

FEAR, WORRY, AND ANXIETY

Fear, worry, and anxiety are all emotions that are commonly experienced by individuals in response to perceived threats or stressful situations. Fear is an intense emotional response to an immediate danger or threat. It is a natural survival mechanism that triggers a "fight-or-flight" response, preparing the body to either confront the threat or escape from it. Fear can be triggered by real or imagined threats and can vary in intensity and duration.

Worry is a state of persistent and excessive concern about potential future events or outcomes. It often involves repetitive and intrusive thoughts about negative possibilities, and individuals may feel restless, on edge, or have difficulty concentrating due to their worries. Worry can be related to specific situations or generalized to various aspects of life.

Anxiety is a more generalized and long-lasting state of unease or apprehension. It is often characterized by excessive and irrational fear or worry that is out of proportion to the actual threat. Anxiety can manifest physically through symptoms such as restlessness, muscle tension, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty sleeping. It can also lead to avoidance behaviors, as individuals may try to avoid situations or triggers that they believe will worsen their anxiety.

While fear, worry, and anxiety are all normal and adaptive responses to certain situations, they can become problematic when they are excessive, persistent, and interfere with daily functioning. In such cases, individuals may benefit from seeking professional help to manage and alleviate these emotions.The Bible contains several instances where fear, worry, and anxiety are depicted in various characters and situations. Here are a few examples:

In the Old Testament, the story of Moses and the Israelites in the book of Exodus portrays fear and anxiety. The Israelites were enslaved in Egypt and faced numerous challenges during their journey to the Promised Land. ‘’… And the LORD said unto Moses, Wherefore criest thou unto me? speak unto the children of Israel, that they go forward’’ (Exodus 14:1-15). They often expressed fear and worry about their future, their safety, and their provisions.

In the New Testament, the disciples of Jesus experienced fear and anxiety during a storm on the Sea of Galilee. In Matthew 8:23-27, the disciples were afraid for their lives as the boat was being tossed by the waves. Jesus calmed the storm and reassured them, saying, " Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith?"

The story of David and Goliath in 1 Samuel 17 highlights the fear and anxiety of the Israelite army facing the giant Philistine warrior. The soldiers were terrified and hesitant to confront Goliath, but David, with his faith in God, overcame his fear and defeated the giant. The book of Psalms contains numerous passages where the psalmist expresses fear, worry, and anxiety. For example, in Psalm 55:4-5, the psalmist says, " My heart is sore pained within me: and the terrors of death are fallen upon me. Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me."

These examples show that fear, worry, and anxiety are part of the human experience, even for individuals in the Bible who had strong faith. However, the Bible also offers guidance and encouragement to trust in God, seek His help, and find peace in His presence. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus said, ‘’ Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light’’.

SUE TOWEY’s Thought on fear and anxiety

According to Sue Towey, fear is described as a natural response to a perceived threat or danger. It is an emotional and physiological reaction that prepares our body to either confront the threat or flee from it. Fear can be triggered by both real and imagined threats, and it often manifests as a feeling of unease, worry, or apprehension.

Anxiety, on the other hand, is a more generalized and persistent feeling of fear or worry. It is often characterized by excessive and irrational thoughts or concerns about future events or uncertain situations. Anxiety can be triggered by various factors, such as stress, trauma, or certain medical conditions, and it can significantly impact a person's daily life and well-being. Towey emphasizes that fear and anxiety are normal human experiences that everyone encounters to some degree. However, when fear or anxiety becomes overwhelming, uncontrollable, or interferes with daily functioning, it may indicate an anxiety disorder that requires professional help.

This highlights that fear and anxiety often stem from a lack of trust in God's plan and provision. When individuals focus on their own abilities and limitations, they tend to become overwhelmed by fear. However, biblical beliefs teach that God is all-powerful and in control of every situation. Therefore, placing trust in God's guidance and provision can alleviate fear and anxiety.

There’s emphasis on the role of prayer in dealing with fear and anxiety. According to biblical teachings, believers are encouraged to cast their anxieties upon God through prayer, knowing that He cares for them. Prayer is seen as a means to surrender one's fears and worries to God, seeking His guidance and peace. Praising God and focusing on His goodness and faithfulness can help individuals shift their focus from their fears to the greatness of God. Biblical teachings encourage believers to worship God in spirit and truth, acknowledging His power and majesty. In addition, there’s importance of renewing one's mind with biblical truths. This suggests that fear and anxiety can be overcome by focusing on God's promises and the truth of His Word. Biblical teachings emphasize the power of God's Word to bring comfort, peace, and assurance in times of fear and anxiety. Finally, Christ declared; ‘’ But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him. Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows’’ (Luke 12:5-7).

The command to fear not

“Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.” (Matthew 10:31). The phrase "fear not" appears in the Bible approximately 365 times. This phrase, or variations of it such as "do not be afraid" or "do not fear," is often used as an encouragement or reassurance to individuals facing difficult or challenging circumstances. It serves as a reminder of God's presence, protection, and faithfulness, and encourages believers to trust in Him rather than giving in to fear or anxiety. This phrase is often used by God or His messengers to comfort and reassure people in various situations. Here are a few reasons why God says "fear ye not" in the Bible:

1. God's Presence: When God says "fear ye not," it is often a reminder that He is with His people. He promises to be present in their lives, guiding and protecting them. This assurance helps to dispel fear and instill confidence in His divine care.

2. Trust in God's Power: Fear can often arise from a sense of powerlessness or uncertainty. By saying "fear ye not," God reminds His people of His unlimited power and control over all circumstances. He encourages them to trust in His ability to overcome any obstacle or challenge they may face.

3. God's Faithfulness: God is faithful to His promises, and when He says "fear ye not," it is a reminder of His unwavering commitment to His people. He assures them that He will never abandon or forsake them, regardless of the circumstances. This reassurance helps to alleviate fear and anxiety.

4. God's Love: Fear can often stem from a lack of love or feeling unloved. When God says "fear ye not," it is a reminder of His deep love for His people. His love is unconditional, and He desires to protect and care for them. This assurance helps to cast out fear and replace it with a sense of security and peace.

5. God's Plan: Sometimes, fear arises from uncertainty about the future or the unknown. When God says "fear ye not," it is a reminder that He has a plan for His people's lives. He knows the beginning from the end, and His plans are ultimately for their good. This assurance helps to calm fears and encourages trust in His divine guidance. Overall, when God says "fear ye not" in the Bible, it is a reminder of His presence, power, faithfulness, love, and plan for His people. It is an invitation to trust in Him and find comfort and peace in His promises.

The promise, ‘’I will never leave thee nor forsake thee’’

The biblical promise "I will never leave thee nor forsake thee" is often embraced by individuals as a source of comfort and assurance from the Lord in various life situations. It extends beyond its original context and resonates with every believer facing challenges, uncertainties, or moments of solitude.

In times of difficulty, the promise signifies an unwavering commitment from our Lord, assuring individuals that they are not alone. It provides solace, reminding believers that regardless of the circumstances, God's presence is constant and steadfast. This promise remain a source of strength during personal trials, offering reassurance that one's struggles do not go unnoticed or unaccompanied. Additionally, the promise holds significance in moments of decision-making or transitions in life. It serves as a beacon of guidance, suggesting that even in the face of uncertainty or change, there is a divine assurance that one is not abandoned. This can instill confidence and peace of mind as individuals navigate through life's various paths.

Furthermore, the promise fosters a sense of security and trust in the divine plan. In Exodus 33:14, the word of the Lord stated that; ‘’ And he said, my presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest’’. It suggests that, despite the ups and downs of life, there is a higher power form God actively involved in the journey, providing support and guidance. This assurance can be a foundation for hope and resilience, helping Christians persevere through challenges with the knowledge that they are not forsaken.

Overall, the promise "I will never leave thee nor forsake thee" from the Bible resonates in personal and universal contexts, offering comfort, guidance, and a profound sense of assurance that transcends the challenges of life. It serves as a reminder that, irrespective of circumstances, there is a source of unwavering support and companionship. Remember the word: ‘’… I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen’’ (Matthew 20:28).

© 2025 Green Olives Christian Books. All rights reserved.