Fear Not...Tuesday

6/24/14

All of us have experienced fear. I bet that we talk with someone on a daily base that is dealing with fear or struggling with anxiety. Maybe they fear rejection, financial worries, and people’s opinions, losing a loved one, health concerns, or the thought of failure. Some people fear speaking in public, flying, or being in the dark.
 

What exactly is fear? According to Webster’s Dictionary, “Fear is an unpleasant often strong emotion caused by anticipation or awareness of danger”.

There are many Scripture verses in the Bible that mention fear and how to overcome this particular emotion.

Isaiah 41:10 reveals, 

“Fear not, for I am with you;
be not dismayed,
for I am your God;
 I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand”.

Philippians 4:6-7 states, 

“Do not be anxious about anything,
but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving
let your requests be made known to God.
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding,
will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”.

Joshua 1:9 proclaims, 

“Have I not commanded you? 

Be strong and courageous. 

Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, 

for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go”.

I like what Alex Niles (2014) wrote, “Sometimes through the darkest skies the brightest stars reveal themselves and shine”.

We can apply this way of thinking to our lives by reminding ourselves that God is still with us in our darkest moments. It is during our times of struggle that God reveals His awesome power and love for us. It does not matter how small the issue or need might seem, our Heavenly Father cares about every aspect of our lives. He does not desire for us to be fearful.

Matthew 10: 29-31 says, “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows”.

When we are faced with life situations that cause us to experience fear, we learn a great deal about ourselves. We discover our strengths, abilities, and gifts. We come to realize that God has provided us with everything we need to face any situation. We just need to learn how to trust Him more.

The Psalms are the Bible’s great soul book, meant to train us to respond to all life situations and difficulties through prayer and trust in the Lord.

One example is when David was seized by the Philistines and he starts to become afraid. However, instead of giving into fear he sets his vision on his Lord. He praises God and puts his trust in Him……

“When I am afraid, I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, In God I trust;
I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?” Psalm 56:3-4

What fear is trying to take a hold of you? What trouble are you facing?

The next time you feel fearful, repeat these words….

“When I am afraid of _________, I will trust in you, Lord”

Don’t live your life in a glass jar, afraid to face your fears. Break free and experience life the way God intended. 

Written by
Storm Hendrickson