Fear

Let me tell you right now, if you live in fear or worry, there is nothing like experiencing freedom from this bondage!  It is most definitely not God’s will for us to live in this state.  I truly think that we don’t always recognize the prominent role this plays in our lives.  It becomes such a part of us that we don’t know or believe there is a better way.  But, I am here to tell you, friend, that there is!  The Bible says in 2 Timothy, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” (vs. 7, NLT…I do love the KJV version of this verse, also.) 

     This verse in 2 Timothy is a springboard into looking into being finished with fear and finding a new way.  For starters, it plainly lets us know that if we are afraid (which I also classify worry under), it is not from God. First John 4:18 says, “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear:  because fear hath torment.  He that feareth is not made perfect in love.”  These two verses alone are enough to encourage us to turn our backs on fear; however, there are many, many more verses that teach us to “fear not.”  In regards to the understanding of the latter verse mentioned here, I would like to relate how God helped me understand.  To put it simply, if I trust my husband and the love he has for me, I do not walk around constantly afraid that he will mistreat me.  Therefore, if I trust God fully, and the love He has for me, it chases away fear.

     I think that certain personalities are more prone to worry and fear than others.  I, also, think that we are often influenced by those around us who are afraid or point out things that could possibly go wrong.  I try to be aware of anxious feelings and check them to see which fear is trying to sneak its way back in.  Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (NIV) So, then I talk to God about my feelings, ask Him to help me; and it is important that we do not ignore the final part of this verse, “…with thanksgiving…”. 

     One particular verse that I felt that God showed me to help me through a difficult transition time between churches is found in Deuteronomy.  It says, “And the Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee:  fear not, neither be dismayed.” (ch. 31, vs. 8, KJV)  I realize that in context, Moses is talking to Joshua here, but I think that so often, God uses scripture to speak to and encourage us right where we are and just when we need it…especially when we seek Him.  “Ask…seek…knock, and the door will be opened to you.” (Matthew 7:7, KJV) I love this verse in the New Living Translation (NLT)… “Keep on asking…keep on seeking…keep on knocking…”  So, I conclude this section with…never give up!!