Fear is a thief. It comes to steal our peace, feelings of security, rest and our hopes for the future. Instead of expecting the best and living in confidence, fear attempts to limit and diminish our lives.
I guess that’s why Jesus said, “Fear not” so many times and asks us to cast all our worries, fears and insecurities onto Him, because He cares for us. That we are not to worry about anything, but instead bring everything to Him in prayer. That we’ll be anxious for nothing. (1 Peter 5:7; Philippians 4:6-7)
Jesus said, “This is why I tell you to never be worried about your life, for all that you will be provided, such as food, water, clothing—everything your body needs. Isn’t there more to your life than a meal? Isn’t your body more than clothing?
Look at all the birds—do you think they worry about their existence? They don’t plant or reap or store up food, yet your heavenly Father provides them each with food. Aren’t you much more valuable to your Father than they? So, which one of you by worrying could add anything to your life?” (Matthew 6:25-27 TPT)
Fear is the opposite of love, and when we fear we become hesitant to step out of our comfort zone or to pursue our dreams. We see others courageously living in healthy relationships, successful and full of vitality and quietly wish we could be like them. Yet fear and insecurities can hold us back and limit our potential, regardless of how many podcasts, self help books, sermons, discussions and information we may consume.
Information alone will not bring about the transformation we need. It’s love that combats fear!
Fear paralyses but love, and faith that is motivated by love sets us free. It is for this reason that Jesus came to give us freedom and life more abundantly. As we embrace love, it will drive out fear and our thoughts will start to line up with the fact that everything is going to be alright. “Perfect love drives out all fear” (1 John 4:18)
“What matters is faith working through love”. (Galatians 5:6)
There will be times in our lives when we will experience some degree of pain, disappointment and problems. Things happen. But there will also be wonderful, exciting things that we can and will experience if we don’t give in to fear, but choose love instead.
Wherever you are today, know that with God’s help and because of His love for you, you will overcome fear. I encourage you to talk to Him about your worries and concerns; give them over to Him in prayer, as you focus on His great love for you and what His Word says about your life and future.
“There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear.”(1 John 4:18 NIV)
The choice is ours whether we will go through life in fear or trust God and that He will be always with us, giving strength in the valley moments and declaring victory alongside us on the mountaintops.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”(John 14:27)
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence.
He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings, you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of night, Nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you.” (Psalm 91:1-7)
Prayer: Lord, thank you that your perfect love for me has the ability and power to drive away all my fears. I choose to trust you today and to receive your love for me. Thank you that I can do all things through Jesus who gives me strength. In Jesus name Amen.