The dictionary defines fear as “an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat.” Have you experienced that emotion recently? What fear has you trapped today?
Perhaps you’re afraid of not being enough. Maybe it’s the fear of the future or failure. Or could it be that you fear the opinions of other people? Regardless of how fear grips you right now, the good news is that God promises to rescue you from fear. Together, let’s explore some passages that encourage us in our frightened times.
GOD HOLDS OUR HAND IN FEARFUL MOMENTS
For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.
Do you remember when you were a child, afraid on the first day of a new school year? Your new outfit and lunch box had you excited the night before. However, this morning, you find your shoes feel hesitant to move and your lunch box too heavy to carry. As you cautiously step through the front doors, your mom’s confident hand reaches down to hold your shaking one. You’re still nervous, but her strong and loving grasp gives you the dose of courage you need to start the day.
While you may not be enduring a nervous first day of school, you may still feel a paralyzing fear over your circumstances today. Thankfully, your Heavenly Father kindly offers His own hand to keep you stable and secure. There’s no need to fear when the Almighty is walking alongside you, offering help far beyond your capacity.
DON’T FEAR OTHER PEOPLE
So we can say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?”
Do you find yourself afraid of what others think of you? Are you afraid they’ll think you don’t fit in? Is it possible you fear they won’t like you if they know you’re a Christian? Jesus Himself endured harsh opinions from other Jews, those He came to save. Unfortunately, Jesus said that since they didn’t like Him, many won’t like you so much either. But that’s ok.
In Hebrews 11, we’re reminded of many people who followed the Lord faithfully, even if other people protested. Then Hebrews 12:3 reminds us of the hostility Christ endured from sinful people. Then here in Hebrews 13, it asks that very thoughtful question, “What can mere people do to me?” The answer? Not much. The absolute worst they can do is take your life, which then simply puts you in the presence of Jesus himself. But in the meantime, we need not fear other people because the Lord is our helper.
FEAR DOESN’T COME FROM GOD
For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
Have you noticed how many times in the Bible people are instructed not to fear? Joshua is commanded to have courage before confronting Jericho. The angel Gabriel tells Mary to not be afraid when he delivers an unexpected pregnancy announcement. We are given the same instruction, too. Your situation may not be as eye-popping as going into battle or becoming a parent to the Son of God. But your natural, expected, human reaction is still fear. Thankfully, God gives us better tools to replace that unhelpful emotion. He gives us power, love, and self-control. We just have to choose to use them.
RELATED: What Does the Bible Say about Peace? 3 Reliable Promises
WHAT VERSES HELP YOU?
When you’re afraid, what verses do you lean on? Tell us in the comments! Then remember that “Fear is a Liar.”
If you’re living in fear of an abusive spouse, we encourage you to connect the Open Gate Domestic Violence Shelter and Services in Wilmington, NC, or a shelter near you.
