What does “without fear of molestation” mean?
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What does “without fear of molestation” mean?
This is a common expression that is used in prayer. The word “molestation” here means not to be bothered by those who would interrupt the worship services. The idea is that we desire to have a peaceful experience when we are worshipping. It recognizes that peace is not a luxury that we should take for granted, but rather, pray that God will continue to give to us as a blessing. Many times the prayer leader has in mind the notion of not allowing the government to pass laws that will interfere with our worship. More recently, the prayer leader may have in mind violence that has been perpetrated against the church in recent times. Asking God for such peace is certainly a scriptural thought. The Bible tells us to pray for peace. “Grace and peace” is a very common expression and greeting given by the apostles and prophets in the New Testament. First Timothy 2:1-2 says, “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.” Romans 12:8 says, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” Hebrews 12:14 says “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.” Another aspect of this prayer phrase is more personal. It is a prayer to help us overcome our fears. Certainly, as we have already mentioned, there are things that we may fear when it comes to government intervention or people behaving very poorly. We want to have a worship experience where we don’t have to be afraid. God tells us that putting our faith in Him is the best tool to battle fear. In Proverbs 3:25 we read, “Do not be afraid of sudden terror, Nor of trouble from the wicked when it comes” (Proverbs 3:25). Jesus told us, “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matthew 10:28). We should also recognize that when we love God supremely, our faith is going to cancel out our fear. John tells us about this in 1 John 4:18, “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.” Paul writes to Timothy also, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7). However, we are weak, and we sometimes give in to our fears. Praying this kind of prayer helps us to focus on our great God who can save us from all things. When we put our faith and trust in Him, He will provide for us no matter come what may.