I GOT YOU FEAR, YOU WILL NO LONGER CONTROL ME
The Bible mentions two specific types of fear. The first type is beneficial and is to be encouraged. The second type is a detriment and is to be overcome. The first type of fear is fear of the Lord. This type of fear does not necessarily mean to be afraid of something. Rather, it is a reverential awe of God, a reverence for His power and glory. However, it is also a proper respect for His wrath and anger. In other words, the fear of the Lord is a total acknowledgement of all that God is, which comes through knowing Him and His attributes.
Fear of the Lord brings with it many blessings and benefits.
It is the foundation of true wisdom and leads to good understanding (Psalm 111:10).
Fear of the Lord leads to life, rest, peace, and contentment (Proverbs 19:23).
It is a life-giving fountain; it offers escape from the snares of death. (Proverbs 14:27)
Provides security and a place of safety for us and our children. (Proverbs 14:26).
Thus, one can see how fearing God should be encouraged. However, the second type of fear mentioned in the Bible is not beneficial at all. This is the “spirit of fear” mentioned in
2 Timothy 1:7: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (NKJV). A spirit of fearfulness and timidity does not come from God.
**Spirit of Fear**: The verse begins by stating that fear is not from God. This suggests that fear can be a hindrance to fulfilling one's purpose and calling. Instead of being paralyzed by fear, believers are encouraged to rely on the qualities that God provides.
**Power, Love, and Sound Mind**: Each of these traits serves as a counter to fear:
- **Power**: Refers to the strength and capability that comes from the Holy Spirit, empowering believers to undertake their challenges and to act according to their faith.
- **Love**: Emphasizes the importance of love as the foundation of Christian living. This love can overcome fear, as it encourages selflessness and connection with others.
1 John 4:18 (NLTse): “Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love.”
- **Sound Mind**: This implies clear thinking and self-discipline, allowing believers to make wise decisions and approach life’s challenges with calmness and rationale.
**Overcoming Fear Through Faith**
Fear is a common human experience, often creeping into our hearts during uncertain times. However, the Bible provides us with comforting truths that can guide us through our fears.
Isaiah 41:10 (NLTse): “Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”
Often, we fear the future and what will happen to us, our children, our spouse. But Jesus reminds us that God cares for the birds of the air, so how much more will He provide for His children? “So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows” (Matthew 10:31).
Psalms 56:11 (NLTse): “I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? What can mere mortals do to me?”
The key to overcoming fear, then, is total and complete trust in God. Trusting God is a refusal to give in to fear. It is a turning to God even in the darkest times and trusting Him to make things right. This trust comes from knowing God and knowing that He is good. As Job said when he was experiencing some of the most difficult trials recorded in the Bible, “Though he slay me, yet will I trust Him” (Job 13:15 NKJV).
Just these few verses cover many different types of fear. God tells us not to be afraid of being alone, being too weak, not being heard, and not being afraid of lacking physical necessities. These admonishments continue throughout the Bible, covering the many different aspects of the “spirit of fear.”
Once we have learned to put our trust in God, we will no longer be afraid of the things that come against us.
Psalms 5:11 (NLTse): “But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them sing joyful praises forever. Spread your protection over them, that all who love your name may be filled with joy.”
IN THE HEAT OF THE BATTLE:
In moments of anxiety, we can look to Philippians 4:6-7,
Philippians 4:6-7 (NLTse): “Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. [7] Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”
Fear may arise, but faith is stronger. When we anchor ourselves in God’s truth, we can overcome fear and live boldly.
8 TIPS WHEN FEAR CREEPS IN.
1. **Trust in God**: One of the central teachings of the Bible is to place your trust in God.
- **Verse**: “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” (Psalm 56:3)
- **Application**: Remind yourself of God’s faithfulness and sovereignty over your circumstances.
2. **Prayer**: Engage in prayer to express your fears to God and seek His peace.
- **Verse**: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
- **Application**: Take your worries to God and ask for guidance and comfort.
3. **Focus on God’s Promises**: Meditate on God’s promises in Scripture that speak to fear and anxiety.
- **Verse**: “For I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand, saying to you, ‘Fear not, I will help you.’” (Isaiah 41:13)
- **Application**: Write down verses that inspire courage and repeat them when fear arises.
4. **Presence of God**: Remind yourself that God is always with you.
- **Verse**: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” (Psalm 23:4)
- **Application**: Visualize God’s presence with you in difficult times to alleviate fear.
5. **Cast Your Cares**: Release your worries and fears to God.
- **Verse**: “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)
- **Application**: Make a conscious effort to surrender your fears to God in prayer.
6. **Community Support**: Seek fellowship and support from other believers.
- **Verse**: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
- **Application**: Share your fears with trusted friends or a church community for support and prayer.
7. **Remember God’s Control**: Reflect on God’s ultimate authority over all situations.
- **Verse**: “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)
- **Application**: Reassure yourself that God empowers you to face challenges with courage.
8. **Practice Gratitude**: Cultivate a thankful heart to combat fear.
- **Verse**: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
- **Application**: Keep a gratitude journal to focus on blessings rather than fears.
Using these biblical principles can help you find strength, peace, and comfort when facing fear and anxiety.