The most common command in Scripture is “Fear not!” There are 365 Scriptures that tell us not to fear! Apparently, God knew we would need a lot of reassurance when it comes to fear. It’s something we all struggle with. There is a good kind of fear, a fear that causes reverence, caution, and motivates us. For example, we may fear the consequences of breaking the law, both man’s laws and God’s. As a result, that fear keeps us within the guidelines of safety and obedience. However, the Scriptures focus on the kind of fear that can paralyze us and rob us of God’s best. Fear can keep us from trusting God and experiencing the life he wants us to have. 

There are two mindsets for living. One is faith-based—you trust God’s power and have confidence and rest in Him. The other is fear-based—you fear what may happen and anticipate the worst-case scenario. Two different people can face the same situation and respond in totally different ways depending on their mindset and perspective. Perspective makes all the difference. It separates the trivial from the tragic, the majors from the minors. Trusting in God helps us gain the right perspective, the God-designed perspective. We can live with a mindset that is grounded in our faith in God through Christ.

Identifying your fears and overcoming them involves understanding why you fear. Many fears are the result of some brief incident that may have happened long ago. A dog bit you, you had a car accident, you had a bad shrimp, or you were hurt by someone at church! Ever since, you are afraid of dogs, don’t drive unless you must, and have sworn off seafood and church. One brief experience has been rehashed so many times that it’s become HUGE! After you identify the origin of your fear, expose the lies surrounding it. Satan is a liar, and he will create all kinds of “logic” for staying fearful. You only overcome fear by faith and trust in God. In John’s gospel Jesus tells us to remain in His word. His word is truth and truth sets you free. Fill your mind with the truth of God’s word, including some of those 365 Scriptures that tell you to FEAR NOT!! Life is too short to live in fear. Start living in faith bit by bit, step by step. It’s a process, but God can and will bring you out of your fear when you do your part, by remaining in Him and in His word!

Scriptures – Isaiah 41:10 (TLV); Matthew 10:28 (CEV); 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV); Judges 6:23 (KJV); 2 Corinthians (NIV); John 8:44 (NIV); John 8:31-32 (MEV); Joshua 1:9 (GNT); Psalm 27:1 (CEV)

Verse – “Fear not, for I am with you, be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. Surely I will help you. I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” (Is 41:10) For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. (2 Ti 1:7) I sought the LORD, and he delivered me; he delivered me from all my fears. (Ps 34:4)

Questions – Has a long-time fear held you captive? What is your greatest fear? Why? Do you know anyone who lives in fear all the time? Do you know anyone who truly has fearless faith in God? How do you battle fear when it threatens to take you down a dark path?

Prayer – Dear God, lift me above my small and fearful perspective to see my fears in the light of your power. Increase my faith and help me to trust you more and more each day. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.