From Fear to Faith: What do I do with my fear?
Big Idea
The Lord is our strength in this life!
Fear is a universal emotion that can manifest in various ways, from childhood pranks gone wrong to the deeper anxieties we face in life. In this blog post, we'll explore the biblical perspective on fear, emphasizing how it can lead to awe, repentance, or sin. The overarching theme is that the Lord is our strength in navigating the complexities of life.
I. Fear Resulting in Awe:
Proverbs 9:10 teaches us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. This type of fear is not a paralyzing dread but a deep reverence and awe for God's power and sovereignty. Examples like the Hebrew midwives (in Exodus 1) and Job demonstrate how this fear leads to an acknowledgment of God's rightful place in our lives.
II. Fear Resulting in Repentance:
2 Corinthians 7:11 introduces another dimension of fear – one that leads to repentance. This godly sorrow prompts a turning away from sin and a renewed path toward righteousness. Recognizing the consequences of our actions and the grace God provides can cultivate a fear that fosters positive change.
III. Fear Resulting in Sin:
In Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus addresses the detrimental fear that results in sin – the fear of not having enough, worrying about the future, and seeking material things above all else. Jesus contrasts this fear with faith, emphasizing that fearing for our needs should lead us to seek God's kingdom first. This perspective shifts our focus from fear-induced sin to faith-filled trust in God's provision.
IV. Fear in Light of Salvation:
As followers of Christ, our view of fear is transformed when seen in light of our salvation. The Sermon on the Mount encourages us to trust God's care for us, just as He cares for the birds and lilies. Understanding that fear is a byproduct of our fallen nature, Jesus calls us to trust Him instead of succumbing to sin.
Psalm 27: A Blueprint for Overcoming Fear:
King David, in Psalm 27, provides a blueprint for dealing with fear. His faith in God alone (vv. 1-3), focus on the Lord in times of fear (vv. 4-6), and prayerful response (vv. 7-12) showcase a holistic approach to overcoming fear. David reaffirms his faith (vv. 13-14), emphasizing that fear is just an emotion that can be overcome by viewing it in light of our Savior and our salvation.
Conclusion:
In Romans 8:15, we are reminded that as believers, we have not received a spirit of bondage to fear, but one of adoption as children of God. When fear attempts to lead us into sin, we must remember that the Lord is our strength. By trusting Him, seeking His kingdom first, and understanding the privilege of our salvation, we can overcome fear and live in the freedom provided by our loving Father. The big idea remains: The Lord is our strength in this life!
If you want to learn more about how to grow to overcome fear as you pursue Christ. Shepherd Thoughts exists to help you live out your faith. If you or a friend needs support or resources to love God and love others more, please reach out to us today. We’d love to help.
