Fear. It creeps into our lives, whispers doubts, and tries to shake our faith.
But here’s the good news – we don’t have to be slaves to fear. Instead, we can choose faith over fear and embrace the abundant life God has promised us.
Let’s dive into how we can lean into our faith and kick fear to the curb.
Understanding Fear: Our Common Enemy
First things first, let’s talk about fear. Fear is a natural emotion, and it serves a purpose – like keeping us safe from danger.
But, when fear starts to control our lives and decisions, it becomes a problem.
We worry about the future, our health, our finances, relationships, and so much more. It’s like this constant background noise that we can’t seem to shut off.
The Bible has a lot to say about fear. One of the most reassuring verses is 2 Timothy 1:7 (NIV):
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”
God didn’t give us a spirit of fear but of power! Isn’t that amazing?
Faith: Our God-Given Superpower
Now, let’s talk about faith. Faith is believing in what we cannot see and trusting in God’s promises. Hebrews 11:1 (NIV) says,
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”
Faith is our spiritual superpower. It’s what allows us to walk through life’s storms with our heads held high, knowing that God is in control.
But let’s be real – having faith doesn’t mean we won’t face challenges or feel fear.
It means that we choose to trust God in the midst of those challenges and fears. It’s about shifting our focus from the size of our problems to the greatness of our God.
Real-Life Examples of Faith Over Fear
The Bible is full of incredible stories of people who chose faith over fear. Let’s look at a few of them for some inspiration:
David and Goliath: David was just a young shepherd boy when he faced the giant Goliath. While everyone else was paralyzed with fear,
David stepped up with his faith in God and defeated Goliath with a single stone. David’s faith wasn’t in his own abilities but in God’s power.
Daniel in the Lions’ Den: Daniel continued to pray to God despite a decree that made it illegal.
He was thrown into a den of lions, but God shut the mouths of the lions, and Daniel emerged unharmed. Daniel’s faith in God’s protection was greater than his fear of the lions.
Esther: Queen Esther risked her life to save her people from destruction. She approached the king without being summoned, which could have resulted in her death.
Her famous words, “If I perish, I perish,” show her unwavering faith in God’s plan over her fear of the potential consequences.
Practical Steps to Choose Faith Over Fear
So, how can we practically choose faith over fear in our daily lives? Here are a few tips that have helped me, and I hope they’ll help you too:
Spend Time in God’s Word:
The Bible is full of promises and stories that remind us of God’s faithfulness.
Make it a habit to read and meditate on Scripture daily.
Pray Regularly:
Prayer is our direct line of communication with God. When fear starts to creep in, take it to God in prayer. Pour out your heart to Him and ask for His peace and strength.
Surround Yourself with Faithful Friends:
Community is so important. Surround yourself with friends who will encourage you, pray for you, and remind you of God’s promises.
Focus on God’s Faithfulness:
Take time to remember and reflect on the times God has been faithful in your life.
Keeping a journal of answered prayers and God’s provision can be a powerful reminder when fear tries to take over.
Worship:
There’s something powerful about worship. It shifts our focus from our problems to God’s greatness.
Whether it’s singing along to worship music, dancing, or simply sitting in God’s presence, worship can strengthen our faith and chase away fear.
Faith in Action: Trusting God in Uncertain Times
Let’s be honest – life is full of uncertainties. We don’t know what tomorrow holds, but we do know who holds tomorrow.
Trusting God doesn’t mean we won’t face difficulties; it means we trust Him to see us through them.
Psalm 23:4 (NIV) beautifully captures this:
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
God is with us in the valleys, and His presence is our comfort.
If studying the Bible better is on your list of things to do this year, be sure to visit our Bible Study Resources page where you’ll find everything you need to make Bible study a regular part of your daily routine.
Final Thoughts: Living a Fearless Life
Choosing faith over fear is a daily decision.
It’s about aligning our hearts with God’s truth and trusting in His goodness, even when circumstances seem daunting.
Remember, fear may knock on our door, but we don’t have to let it in.
As we wrap up, I want to leave you with one of my favorite verses, Joshua 1:9 (NIV):
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
God’s command to be strong and courageous isn’t based on our own strength but on His constant presence with us.
So, dear friends, let’s choose faith over fear. Let’s trust in God’s promises and walk boldly in His truth.
Remember, with God on our side, there’s nothing we need to fear. Let’s live fearlessly and shine His light in a world that desperately needs it.