Faith Over Fear

We all have fears, don’t we? Fear is real, and it can dominate us if we allow it to. The word “fear” in II Tim. 1:7 is translated in the Greek as “timidity or cowardice.” It is that kind of fear that is a sin in the eyes of God. How can fear have a negative impact on our lives?

Fear paralyzes: Fear can keep us from doing the things that are important and keep us from being who God wants us to be. It can take a toll on our life and rip the joy right out of us. Fear also will keep us from confessing Jesus (John 12:42-43) and obeying God (I Sam. 15:24; Matt. 25:24-25).

Fear denies God’s presence: “We walk by faith, not by sight” (II Cor. 5:7). Fear comes when we live by sight. Whatever we’re fearful of, underneath that fear is the belief that God is not there. When fear enters, we’ve got a choice to make. We can focus on our problems and be overcome with fear, or we can choose to focus on God and His presence, and our fears will disappear (Ps. 34:4).

How can I overcome that fear?

*Grow in faith (II Pet. 3:18)

*Be a doer (James 1:21-25)

*Pray and be thankful (Phil. 4:6-7)

*Focus on Godly things (Phil. 4:8)

*Serve (Acts 20:35)

*Put on the full armor of God (Eph. 6:10-18)

*Sanctify the Lord in my heart (I Pet. 3:13-15)

*Redirect fear toward God (Mark 4:35-41): Fear is good when it warns and redirects. It can be healthy and protect us from danger. So, instead of fearing circumstances, I need to fear God with reverence, respect and awe.

And if we fear God, we will keep His commandments (Eccl. 12:13) and obey, just like Noah did (Heb. 11:7). Noah’s obedience wasn’t haphazard. It was measured and reverent. He did it because he respected God and feared God.

Fear will cause us to lose our soul (Rev. 21:8), just as quick as any other sin. But a healthy dose of godly fear is good for us, knowing we will stand before God in judgment.

-- Steven Matthews