When God is asleep Part 6
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6) We see the PUZZLEMENT of the DISCIPLES at the DISPLAY of the SAVIOR. Mark 4:39, 41
6) We see the PUZZLEMENT of the DISCIPLES at the DISPLAY of the SAVIOR. Mark 4:39, 41
Mark 4:39 (KJV 1900)
39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.
Mark 4:41 (KJV 1900)
41 And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?
I ] Overcoming the Spirit of Fear
I ] Overcoming the Spirit of Fear
Fear was a big problem in the world during the Coronorvirus .
Fear was a big problem in the world during the Coronorvirus .
There is fear about finances – of losing a job and not being able to pay bills.
There is fear about finances – of losing a job and not being able to pay bills.
Evidently – there’s was huge fear of running out of toilet paper!
Evidently – there’s was huge fear of running out of toilet paper!
All of us know what it’s like to be afraid.
All of us know what it’s like to be afraid.
Some people are afraid of snakes or spiders.
Some people are afraid of snakes or spiders.
For some of you it may be storms, heights, fear of flying, or fear of death.
For some of you it may be storms, heights, fear of flying, or fear of death.
Having fears is normal.
Having fears is normal.
For instance, there is a normal, healthy fear that causes you to take precautions so you didn’t get the corona virus.
For instance, there is a normal, healthy fear that causes you to take precautions so you didn’t get the corona virus.
But the spirit of fear is something else altogether!
But the spirit of fear is something else altogether!
It is a demonic spirit that wants to take over your thoughts and life!
It is a demonic spirit that wants to take over your thoughts and life!
That spirit is working overtime right now and that’s why I’m preaching today on Overcoming the Spirit of Fear.
That spirit is working overtime right now and that’s why I’m preaching today on Overcoming the Spirit of Fear.
We must overcome fear or it will take over our lives.
We must overcome fear or it will take over our lives.
Hebrews 12:1-2 says: Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
Hebrews 12:1-2 says: Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. God wants nothing to hinder or hold us back.
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. God wants nothing to hinder or hold us back.
And one of the biggest things that holds people back is fear.
And one of the biggest things that holds people back is fear.
Fear keeps you from entering into everything God has for you. We see this in the children of Israel.
Fear keeps you from entering into everything God has for you. We see this in the children of Israel.
They had been in slavery for 400 years and God heard their prayers and set them free. He used many miraculous signs and wonders to deliver them.
They had been in slavery for 400 years and God heard their prayers and set them free. He used many miraculous signs and wonders to deliver them.
They saw His power first-hand time and time again. Yet when it came time to enter into the Promised Land – when they finally got to where they were going – they refused to enter in.
They saw His power first-hand time and time again. Yet when it came time to enter into the Promised Land – when they finally got to where they were going – they refused to enter in.
Why? Because of fear.
Why? Because of fear.
They were afraid.
They were afraid.
They sent spies into the land to check it out. When they got back, Numbers 13:30-33 says that Joshua and Caleb said: We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it."
They sent spies into the land to check it out. When they got back, Numbers 13:30-33 says that Joshua and Caleb said: We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it."
And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it.
But the men that went up with him said, We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we.
And they brought up an evil report of the land which they had searched unto the children of Israel, saying, The land, through which we have gone to search it, is a land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that we saw in it are men of a great stature.
And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, which come of the giants: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight.
But the men who had gone up with him said, "We can't attack those people; they are stronger than we are."
But the men who had gone up with him said, "We can't attack those people; they are stronger than we are."
And they spread among the Israelites a bad report about the land they had explored.
And they spread among the Israelites a bad report about the land they had explored.
They said, "The land we explored devours those living in it. All the people we saw there are of great size.
They said, "The land we explored devours those living in it. All the people we saw there are of great size.
We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them."
We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them."
In Numbers 14:9 Joshua and Caleb said: Do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will swallow them up.
In Numbers 14:9 Joshua and Caleb said: Do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will swallow them up.
Only rebel not ye against the Lord, neither fear ye the people of the land; for they are bread for us: their defence is departed from them, and the Lord is with us: fear them not.
Their protection is gone, but the Lord is with us. Do not be afraid of them.
Their protection is gone, but the Lord is with us. Do not be afraid of them.
But the people did not overcome their fear and fear kept the children of Israel from entering into their destiny – their promise – their dream.
But the people did not overcome their fear and fear kept the children of Israel from entering into their destiny – their promise – their dream.
Is fear holding you back?
Is fear holding you back?
Is fear keeping you from entering into your destiny – promise – dream?
Is fear keeping you from entering into your destiny – promise – dream?
Is fear holding you back from risking anything?
Is fear holding you back from risking anything?
Fear of failure causes many people to never try anything that is not completely safe – so they stay stuck in life.
Fear of failure causes many people to never try anything that is not completely safe – so they stay stuck in life.
Not only does fear hold you back, but it can impact those around you.
Not only does fear hold you back, but it can impact those around you.
Now - maybe you think you have no fears, but maybe you’re a worrier – constantly anxious over what may happen.
Now - maybe you think you have no fears, but maybe you’re a worrier – constantly anxious over what may happen.
If you look up the word “worry” in a thesaurus – you’ll these words with similar meaning: anxiety, apprehension, nervousness, stress, fear.
If you look up the word “worry” in a thesaurus – you’ll these words with similar meaning: anxiety, apprehension, nervousness, stress, fear.
In other words – worry is just another name for fear.
In other words – worry is just another name for fear.
All of us have fears that we need to overcome.
All of us have fears that we need to overcome.
If we don’t – it will hinder our lives.
If we don’t – it will hinder our lives.
Fear hinders relationships by keeping people from making the call to ask someone out and start a relationship or making the call to ask for forgiveness and restore a relationship.
Fear hinders relationships by keeping people from making the call to ask someone out and start a relationship or making the call to ask for forgiveness and restore a relationship.
Fear hinders careers by keeping people from going back to school or asking for a promotion.
Fear hinders careers by keeping people from going back to school or asking for a promotion.
Fear hinders blessing by keeping people from tithing by making them think, “I can’t afford to tithe.”
Fear hinders blessing by keeping people from tithing by making them think, “I can’t afford to tithe.”
Fear hinders worship by keeping people more concerned about what people think than what God thinks!
Fear hinders worship by keeping people more concerned about what people think than what God thinks!
Satan’s desire is to steal, kill and destroy, and fear is one of his biggest tactics.
Satan’s desire is to steal, kill and destroy, and fear is one of his biggest tactics.
Overcoming fear is not theoretical to me – it’s something I’ve had to do!
Overcoming fear is not theoretical to me – it’s something I’ve had to do!
When I was young, I had a lot of shame in my life.
When I was young, I had a lot of shame in my life.
Shame defined and controlled me on a daily basis.
Shame defined and controlled me on a daily basis.
I would wake up in the morning with this awful sense of shame hanging over me.
I would wake up in the morning with this awful sense of shame hanging over me.
I would go to bed at night with uncontrollable thoughts racing through my head: Thoughts like: You are such a loser. You are so stupid.
I would go to bed at night with uncontrollable thoughts racing through my head: Thoughts like: You are such a loser. You are so stupid.
Something is so wrong with you.
Something is so wrong with you.
No one wants to be your friend.
No one wants to be your friend.
I was so consumed by shame.
I was so consumed by shame.
Almost every very time I had a conversation with someone I would feel an overwhelming sense of shame.
Almost every very time I had a conversation with someone I would feel an overwhelming sense of shame.
I would obsess about the conversation, playing it over and over in my mind while telling myself how stupid I sounded.
I would obsess about the conversation, playing it over and over in my mind while telling myself how stupid I sounded.
Eventually, I became terrified of having conversations.
Eventually, I became terrified of having conversations.
I was so afraid of talking to people that I became afraid to leave my house.
I was so afraid of talking to people that I became afraid to leave my house.
The technical name for this is agoraphobia, which is an irrational fear of being in public.
The technical name for this is agoraphobia, which is an irrational fear of being in public.
Through much prayer and counseling I did overcome this.
Through much prayer and counseling I did overcome this.
Thank God I did because it was tormenting to live that way.
Thank God I did because it was tormenting to live that way.
1 John 4:18 says that fear has torment.
1 John 4:18 says that fear has torment.
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
The word torment comes from the same root word at torture.
The word torment comes from the same root word at torture.
It means to cause pain and suffering – physical, mental or emotional.
It means to cause pain and suffering – physical, mental or emotional.
Fear wants to stalk you, track you down and capture you. Fear will hinder you - limit you - paralyze you.
Fear wants to stalk you, track you down and capture you. Fear will hinder you - limit you - paralyze you.
What fear has you bound?
What fear has you bound?
Whatever it is, this much I know: Fear is not from God.
Whatever it is, this much I know: Fear is not from God.
The most common command in the Bible is “Fear not.”
The most common command in the Bible is “Fear not.”
If God commands us not to fear – then it must be possible to not fear.
If God commands us not to fear – then it must be possible to not fear.
2 Timothy 1:7 tells us: For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
2 Timothy 1:7 tells us: For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
This verse tells us that fear is not of God.
This verse tells us that fear is not of God.
Fear is not like a cold where you can just let it run its course and will eventually get better.
Fear is not like a cold where you can just let it run its course and will eventually get better.
Fears only get worse. They don’t just go away - They must be overcome.
Fears only get worse. They don’t just go away - They must be overcome.
And God has given us the tools to overcome the spirit of fear.
And God has given us the tools to overcome the spirit of fear.
But fear must be resisted – it will not just go away.
But fear must be resisted – it will not just go away.
So let’s look at 3 ways we overcome a spirit of fear:
So let’s look at 3 ways we overcome a spirit of fear:
1- We Overcome the Spirit of Fear with God’s Power To overcome fear, we cannot deny it, hide from it, give in to it or run from it.
1- We Overcome the Spirit of Fear with God’s Power To overcome fear, we cannot deny it, hide from it, give in to it or run from it.
We must face it with the power of God.
We must face it with the power of God.
There is someone I know who had really high blood pressure, but was afraid to go to the doctor and get it checked.
There is someone I know who had really high blood pressure, but was afraid to go to the doctor and get it checked.
When the nurse tried to take to take her blood pressure, she would refuse.
When the nurse tried to take to take her blood pressure, she would refuse.
Even though she knew the consequences could be deadly, she was just too afraid.
Even though she knew the consequences could be deadly, she was just too afraid.
After many years of this she finally overcame her fear.
After many years of this she finally overcame her fear.
She just did it afraid.
She just did it afraid.
When you face your fear by doing what you are afraid to do, you break the power of fear in your life.
When you face your fear by doing what you are afraid to do, you break the power of fear in your life.
1 John 5:4 says: This is the victory that overcomes the world, even our faith
1 John 5:4 says: This is the victory that overcomes the world, even our faith
For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
. We overcome fear the way Jesus taught us to overcome: with the Word.
. We overcome fear the way Jesus taught us to overcome: with the Word.
That’s what I had to do to overcome a spirit of fear.
That’s what I had to do to overcome a spirit of fear.
Pastor Joe and his friend love to travel.
Pastor Joe and his friend love to travel.
They’e flown hundreds of times with no fear.
They’e flown hundreds of times with no fear.
However, after having 2 MRI’s, everything changed.
However, after having 2 MRI’s, everything changed.
An MRI is like a full-body X-Ray taken with you enclosed in a tube.
An MRI is like a full-body X-Ray taken with you enclosed in a tube.
He got very fearful in the MRI machine. In fact, Joe had to hold on to my foot and pray for me the whole time.
He got very fearful in the MRI machine. In fact, Joe had to hold on to my foot and pray for me the whole time.
The next time we traveled – when I got into the plane – an enclosed tube - I was attacked by fear.
The next time we traveled – when I got into the plane – an enclosed tube - I was attacked by fear.
As soon as the door closed, I felt like I had to get off the plane right then and there.
As soon as the door closed, I felt like I had to get off the plane right then and there.
But Joe did not let me off the plane.
But Joe did not let me off the plane.
He knew the only way to defeat that fear was to face it.
He knew the only way to defeat that fear was to face it.
By then it was too late anyway – so the stewardess helped me find a seat on the aisle where I did not feel so closed in.
By then it was too late anyway – so the stewardess helped me find a seat on the aisle where I did not feel so closed in.
If I had given in to that fear, that would have been the last time we ever flew.
If I had given in to that fear, that would have been the last time we ever flew.
So I faced the fear of flying and conquered it.
So I faced the fear of flying and conquered it.
How? I did it afraid.
How? I did it afraid.
I flew afraid until I overcame my fear.
I flew afraid until I overcame my fear.
Courage is not the absence of fear – it is choosing to do it afraid!
Courage is not the absence of fear – it is choosing to do it afraid!
So I fought the way Jesus taught us to fight: with the Word.
So I fought the way Jesus taught us to fight: with the Word.
I found a Bible verse that I memorized and quoted.
I found a Bible verse that I memorized and quoted.
Psalm 56:3 Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.
Psalm 56:3 Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.
What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.
That’s a great verse to quote when you’re afraid.
That’s a great verse to quote when you’re afraid.
You may say, “But I’ve tried to overcome fear and I can’t.”
You may say, “But I’ve tried to overcome fear and I can’t.”
Well in your own strength that’s true.
Well in your own strength that’s true.
Apart from God, we can do nothing.
Apart from God, we can do nothing.
However, we must believe that through His power, we can do anything God wants us to.
However, we must believe that through His power, we can do anything God wants us to.
Philippians 4:13 says: I can do everything through Him who gives me strength
Philippians 4:13 says: I can do everything through Him who gives me strength
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
. I can do what things? Everything! Including overcoming fear.
. I can do what things? Everything! Including overcoming fear.
Anything God wants me to do, He gives me the power to do.
Anything God wants me to do, He gives me the power to do.
That power comes from being filled with the Holy Spirit.
That power comes from being filled with the Holy Spirit.
Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you.
Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you.
But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
Instead of being filled with fear, be filled with faith.
Instead of being filled with fear, be filled with faith.
Instead of being filled with a spirit of fear, be filled with the spirit of God.
Instead of being filled with a spirit of fear, be filled with the spirit of God.
You can overcome fear with the power of God.
You can overcome fear with the power of God.
We have the power of the blood of Christ, the power of the Word of God, and the power of the name of Jesus.
We have the power of the blood of Christ, the power of the Word of God, and the power of the name of Jesus.
Demons tremble at the sound of that name!
Demons tremble at the sound of that name!
When we resist the spirit of fear in the name of Jesus, it must flee!
When we resist the spirit of fear in the name of Jesus, it must flee!
So, overcome the spirit of fear with the power of God!!
So, overcome the spirit of fear with the power of God!!
2- We Overcome the Spirit of Fear with a Sound Mind in 2 Timothy 1:7 says: For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.
2- We Overcome the Spirit of Fear with a Sound Mind in 2 Timothy 1:7 says: For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
We see here an amplification of the phrase “sound mind.”
We see here an amplification of the phrase “sound mind.”
A sound mind is calm, well-balanced, disciplined and self-controlled.
A sound mind is calm, well-balanced, disciplined and self-controlled.
A mind controlled by fear is the opposite of this.
A mind controlled by fear is the opposite of this.
● Instead of being calm, a mind controlled by fear is constantly stirred up and stormy.
● Instead of being calm, a mind controlled by fear is constantly stirred up and stormy.
● Instead of being well balanced, a mind controlled by fear is out of balance – totally focused on the bad not the good – the negative not the positive.
● Instead of being well balanced, a mind controlled by fear is out of balance – totally focused on the bad not the good – the negative not the positive.
• Instead of being disciplined and self-controlled, a mind controlled by fear is out of control.
• Instead of being disciplined and self-controlled, a mind controlled by fear is out of control.
Fear will impact the way you think.
Fear will impact the way you think.
If you think fearful thoughts – fear will control your mind.
If you think fearful thoughts – fear will control your mind.
But if you think God’s thoughts – faith will control your mind!
But if you think God’s thoughts – faith will control your mind!
If you speak fearful words – fear will control your life.
If you speak fearful words – fear will control your life.
But if you speak God’s word – faith will control your life!
But if you speak God’s word – faith will control your life!
Most of our fears are the result of wrong thinking.
Most of our fears are the result of wrong thinking.
That’s why God’s word says our minds need to be renewed.
That’s why God’s word says our minds need to be renewed.
Romans 12:2 says: Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
Romans 12:2 says: Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
We need to renew our minds through the word of God.
We need to renew our minds through the word of God.
We’ve got to choose to believe God more than we believe circumstances.
We’ve got to choose to believe God more than we believe circumstances.
For instance, we hear voices all around talking gloom and doom.
For instance, we hear voices all around talking gloom and doom.
We can either choose to be afraid OR we can trust in God and accept His word that He will protect us and meet all our needs according to His riches in glory.
We can either choose to be afraid OR we can trust in God and accept His word that He will protect us and meet all our needs according to His riches in glory.
We can live in fear of dying or we can overcome that fear by knowing 2 Corinthians 5:8 tells us that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord in heaven – a much better place.
We can live in fear of dying or we can overcome that fear by knowing 2 Corinthians 5:8 tells us that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord in heaven – a much better place.
We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.
When we think Biblically, we have a "sound mind" – we have peace. When we have a sound mind - fear just doesn’t make sense.
When we think Biblically, we have a "sound mind" – we have peace. When we have a sound mind - fear just doesn’t make sense.
3- We Overcome the Spirit of Fear with Love At first glance, it does not seem that love could be effective in conquering fear.
3- We Overcome the Spirit of Fear with Love At first glance, it does not seem that love could be effective in conquering fear.
You would think it would be something like faith.
You would think it would be something like faith.
However, Galatians 5:6 says faith works through love.
However, Galatians 5:6 says faith works through love.
For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.
1 John 4:18-19 says: There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment.
1 John 4:18-19 says: There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment.
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
We love him, because he first loved us.
But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.
But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.
We love Him because He first loved us.
We love Him because He first loved us.
Fear and love cannot coexist.
Fear and love cannot coexist.
When one comes in – the other must leave.
When one comes in – the other must leave.
Here’s how this works: The more we love God, the less fear we will have.
Here’s how this works: The more we love God, the less fear we will have.
It’s a matter of trust.
It’s a matter of trust.
When we realize that God loves us and will take care of us, it relieves our fears.
When we realize that God loves us and will take care of us, it relieves our fears.
When we trust in His perfect love – it casts out all fear.
When we trust in His perfect love – it casts out all fear.
The more secure we are in the fact that God loves us and works all things for our good, the less fear we will have.
The more secure we are in the fact that God loves us and works all things for our good, the less fear we will have.
The Lord is with us wherever we go and His love casts out all fear!
The Lord is with us wherever we go and His love casts out all fear!
Once we understand the perfect love of God, we have nothing to fear. I don’t fear death, because my Father has given me eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord!
Once we understand the perfect love of God, we have nothing to fear. I don’t fear death, because my Father has given me eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord!
I don’t fear lack because my Father meets all my needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus!
I don’t fear lack because my Father meets all my needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus!
I don’t fear the devil, because greater is He that is in me that he that is in the world.
I don’t fear the devil, because greater is He that is in me that he that is in the world.
I don’t fear the future because the future’s in my Father’s hands.
I don’t fear the future because the future’s in my Father’s hands.
I don’t fear what man can do to me because if God is for me, who can be against me?
I don’t fear what man can do to me because if God is for me, who can be against me?
I don’t fear evil because what the enemy means for evil, my Father turns to my good.
I don’t fear evil because what the enemy means for evil, my Father turns to my good.
I don’t fear job loss, because Jehovah Jireh is my provider.
I don’t fear job loss, because Jehovah Jireh is my provider.
I don’t fear sickness, because Jehovah Rapha is my physician – and He’s the great physician.
I don’t fear sickness, because Jehovah Rapha is my physician – and He’s the great physician.
Do you get what I’m saying today?
Do you get what I’m saying today?
When you know the Lord – His perfect love casts out all fear!
When you know the Lord – His perfect love casts out all fear!
when you know He is good all the time – Perfect love casts out all fear!
when you know He is good all the time – Perfect love casts out all fear!
when you know He works all things for your good – when you know that nothing can separate you from His love – when you know that He will never leave you or forsake you – And when you know that His perfect love casts out all fear – then there is no longer any room for fear!
when you know He works all things for your good – when you know that nothing can separate you from His love – when you know that He will never leave you or forsake you – And when you know that His perfect love casts out all fear – then there is no longer any room for fear!
You overcome fear by practicing the presence of Jesus.
You overcome fear by practicing the presence of Jesus.
You do that by cultivating your awareness that God is always with you.
You do that by cultivating your awareness that God is always with you.
You do what God told Joshua to do when he was about to lead Israel into a land full of giants.
You do what God told Joshua to do when he was about to lead Israel into a land full of giants.
God told him in Joshua 1:9 Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
God told him in Joshua 1:9 Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.
That’s the same thing God wants to say to us today: be strong and have courage.
That’s the same thing God wants to say to us today: be strong and have courage.
And do not be afraid. Why? Because God is with us.
And do not be afraid. Why? Because God is with us.
We overcome fear when we know God is with us.
We overcome fear when we know God is with us.
We overcome fear when we know God is in us.
We overcome fear when we know God is in us.
We overcome fear when we know God is for us. God has not given you fear, but He’s given you the way to overcome fear: power, love and sound mind.
We overcome fear when we know God is for us. God has not given you fear, but He’s given you the way to overcome fear: power, love and sound mind.
That means if you have fear – you are lacking one or more of those three things!
That means if you have fear – you are lacking one or more of those three things!
You need the power of God to resist the spirit of fear.
You need the power of God to resist the spirit of fear.
You need the word of God to renew your mind so you won’t think fearful thoughts.
You need the word of God to renew your mind so you won’t think fearful thoughts.
Or you need a revelation of the love of God that casts out all fear.
Or you need a revelation of the love of God that casts out all fear.
All fear! Not some fear or most fear!
All fear! Not some fear or most fear!
All fear! Refuse to live in fear one more day!
All fear! Refuse to live in fear one more day!
Overcome the spirit of fear with the power of God, the love of God, and a renewed mind that resists the spirit of fear with the Word of God!
Overcome the spirit of fear with the power of God, the love of God, and a renewed mind that resists the spirit of fear with the Word of God!
You have the power of the Holy Spirit and you can overcome the spirit of fear in Jesus’ name!!!
You have the power of the Holy Spirit and you can overcome the spirit of fear in Jesus’ name!!!
5 observations: Matt 14:22-36 Mark 4:35-41
5 observations: Matt 14:22-36 Mark 4:35-41
And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away.
And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.
But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary.
And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.
And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.
But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.
And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.
And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.
But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.
And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?
And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.
Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.
And when they were gone over, they came into the land of Gennesaret.
And when the men of that place had knowledge of him, they sent out into all that country round about, and brought unto him all that were diseased;
And besought him that they might only touch the hem of his garment: and as many as touched were made perfectly whole.
And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side.
And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships.
And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full.
And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?
And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.
And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?
And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?
And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side.
And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships.
And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full.
And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?
And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.
And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?
And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?
1)Fear is always waiting •(vs Matt 14: 22-24 s 24 …the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves.”
1)Fear is always waiting •(vs Matt 14: 22-24 s 24 …the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves.”
And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away.
And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.
But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary.
•Fear is always waiting for a chance to enter our lives Fear is that sensation, feeling or inner knowing that anything could happen and the result of what happens will not be good.
•Fear is always waiting for a chance to enter our lives Fear is that sensation, feeling or inner knowing that anything could happen and the result of what happens will not be good.
•Intruder
•Intruder
•Car crash
•Car crash
•Failure
•Failure
•Confrontation
•Confrontation
2) Fear blinds us from seeing Jesus •(vs Matt 14 : 25-26) vs 26 … they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!”
2) Fear blinds us from seeing Jesus •(vs Matt 14 : 25-26) vs 26 … they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!”
•Fear will blind you “Fear is like the monster under my kids’ beds — its power is fuelled not by what’s really there, but by what might be, what we imagine could be.
•Fear will blind you “Fear is like the monster under my kids’ beds — its power is fuelled not by what’s really there, but by what might be, what we imagine could be.
Fear is a hollow darkness in the future that reaches back through time to rob our joy now by belittling the sovereign goodness of God.” (Jonathan Parnell)
Fear is a hollow darkness in the future that reaches back through time to rob our joy now by belittling the sovereign goodness of God.” (Jonathan Parnell)
3) Fear stems from unbelief •(vs Matt 14: 27-31) vs 31 … “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?”
3) Fear stems from unbelief •(vs Matt 14: 27-31) vs 31 … “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?”
But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.
And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.
And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.
But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.
And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?
•Fear = Unbelief •Intruder – God is with me and will protect me. (Ps 118:6) •Car crash – Gods plans are perfect, He up holds me. (Ps18:30)
•Fear = Unbelief •Intruder – God is with me and will protect me. (Ps 118:6) •Car crash – Gods plans are perfect, He up holds me. (Ps18:30)
The Lord is on my side; I will not fear: What can man do unto me?
As for God, his way is perfect: The word of the Lord is tried: He is a buckler to all those that trust in him.
•Failure- God will provide for me every need. (Phil 4:19)
•Failure- God will provide for me every need. (Phil 4:19)
But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
•Confrontation – God defines my identity.
•Confrontation – God defines my identity.
(Rom 8:31, 2Cor 5:17) What about the fear of the Lord?
(Rom 8:31, 2Cor 5:17) What about the fear of the Lord?
What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
(Psalm 111:10) The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding.
(Psalm 111:10) The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: A good understanding have all they that do his commandments: His praise endureth for ever.
To him belongs eternal praise.
To him belongs eternal praise.
•It’s a reverential fear
•It’s a reverential fear
4) Faith in Jesus calms the storm
4) Faith in Jesus calms the storm
•(vs Matt 14: 32-33) vs 32-33 “…the wind died down.
•(vs Matt 14: 32-33) vs 32-33 “…the wind died down.
And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.
Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.
Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
•The opposite of fear is faith (Hebrews 11:1) Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.
•The opposite of fear is faith (Hebrews 11:1) Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
•Hope = a strong and confident expectation.
•Hope = a strong and confident expectation.
•There is a difference between misplaced and well placed faith.
•There is a difference between misplaced and well placed faith.
5) Faith sends us
5) Faith sends us
•(vs Matt 14 34-36) vs 35 “And when the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding country.”
•(vs Matt 14 34-36) vs 35 “And when the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding country.”
And when they were gone over, they came into the land of Gennesaret.
And when the men of that place had knowledge of him, they sent out into all that country round about, and brought unto him all that were diseased;
And besought him that they might only touch the hem of his garment: and as many as touched were made perfectly whole.
“God our Father has made all things depend on faith so that whoever has faith will have everything, and whoever does not have faith will have nothing.” (Martin Luther) How do we overcome fear?
“God our Father has made all things depend on faith so that whoever has faith will have everything, and whoever does not have faith will have nothing.” (Martin Luther) How do we overcome fear?
1.Take all our fears to God (Ps 34:4)
1.Take all our fears to God (Ps 34:4)
I sought the Lord, and he heard me, And delivered me from all my fears.
2.Receive Gods love (1John 4:18)
2.Receive Gods love (1John 4:18)
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
3.Receive Gods Spirit (2Tim 1:7)
3.Receive Gods Spirit (2Tim 1:7)
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
How do we grow in faith?
How do we grow in faith?
1.Understand that faith is a gift from God (Eph 2:8-9)
1.Understand that faith is a gift from God (Eph 2:8-9)
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
Not of works, lest any man should boast.
2.Spend time in the word (Romans 10:17)
2.Spend time in the word (Romans 10:17)
So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
3.Spend time in prayer and worship (Psalm 119: 10, 11, 15)
3.Spend time in prayer and worship (Psalm 119: 10, 11, 15)
With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments.
Thy word have I hid in mine heart, That I might not sin against thee.
I will meditate in thy precepts, And have respect unto thy ways.
4.Experience adversity (James 1:2-4) “To live by faith is to live joyfully, to live with assurance, untroubled by doubts and with complete confidence in all we have to do and suffer at each moment by the will of God.
4.Experience adversity (James 1:2-4) “To live by faith is to live joyfully, to live with assurance, untroubled by doubts and with complete confidence in all we have to do and suffer at each moment by the will of God.
My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
We must realize that it is in order to stimulate and sustain this faith that God allows the soul to be buffeted and swept away by the raging torrent of so much distress, so many troubles, so much embarrassment and weakness, and so many setbacks.
We must realize that it is in order to stimulate and sustain this faith that God allows the soul to be buffeted and swept away by the raging torrent of so much distress, so many troubles, so much embarrassment and weakness, and so many setbacks.
For it is essential to have faith to find God behind all this.” (Jean-Pierre de Caussade) (Heb11:6) "Without faith it is impossible to please God.”
For it is essential to have faith to find God behind all this.” (Jean-Pierre de Caussade) (Heb11:6) "Without faith it is impossible to please God.”
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
5 Strategies for How to Remove Fear from Mind and Heart
5 Strategies for How to Remove Fear from Mind and Heart
SPIRITUAL GROWTH
SPIRITUAL GROWTH
No matter how old I am, feelings of fear continue to linger in my heart and mind.
No matter how old I am, feelings of fear continue to linger in my heart and mind.
Even as adult,” I still encounter fear too often.
Even as adult,” I still encounter fear too often.
I question my ability to perform at work.
I question my ability to perform at work.
I am scared of making the wrong decision about where to live.
I am scared of making the wrong decision about where to live.
I fear never reaching my dreams and goals.
Oh, I wish fear would stop coming around, making me second guess myself, and holding me back.
I fear never reaching my dreams and goals.
Oh, I wish fear would stop coming around, making me second guess myself, and holding me back.
I wish I knew how to remove fear from mind and heart, so I could act boldly for Christ.
I wish I knew how to remove fear from mind and heart, so I could act boldly for Christ.
At this point, I’d say letting go of fear is definitely overdue.
Table of Contents hide
At this point, I’d say letting go of fear is definitely overdue.
Table of Contents hide
1 The Struggle with Removing Fear from Mind and Heart
1 The Struggle with Removing Fear from Mind and Heart
1.1 What is the spirit of fear?
1.1 What is the spirit of fear?
1.2 What does God and the Bible say about fear?
1.2 What does God and the Bible say about fear?
2 Strategies for How to Remove Fear from Mind and Heart
2 Strategies for How to Remove Fear from Mind and Heart
2.1 1. Be Honest about Your Fear
2.1 1. Be Honest about Your Fear
2.2 2. Overcoming Fear Biblically with Scripture
2.2 2. Overcoming Fear Biblically with Scripture
2.3 3. Using Prayer to Remove Fear from Mind and Heart
2.3 3. Using Prayer to Remove Fear from Mind and Heart
2.4 4. Overcoming Fear in Life by Living by Faith
2.4 4. Overcoming Fear in Life by Living by Faith
2.5 5. Letting it Go: How to Push Through Fear
2.5 5. Letting it Go: How to Push Through Fear
3 Overcoming the Spirit of Fear
3 Overcoming the Spirit of Fear
3.1 How to Remove Fear from Mind and Heart PDF + Prayer
3.1 How to Remove Fear from Mind and Heart PDF + Prayer
The Struggle with Removing Fear from Mind and Heart
The Struggle with Removing Fear from Mind and Heart
At the start of 2020, I chose a word for the year: “audacity.”
At the start of 2020, I chose a word for the year: “audacity.”
Having audacity would mean to “start taking risks and stop playing it safe.”
Having audacity would mean to “start taking risks and stop playing it safe.”
It would mean to “stop worrying and letting fear drive my decisions.”
It would mean to “stop worrying and letting fear drive my decisions.”
However, it isn’t as simple as that an intention and then living out that intention.
However, it isn’t as simple as that an intention and then living out that intention.
Even though one sets out with high hopes and concrete plans for 2020, much of the year was ruled by fear.
Even though one sets out with high hopes and concrete plans for 2020, much of the year was ruled by fear.
The coronavirus pandemic shattered many peoples illusion of certainty, and fear quickly moved in.
The coronavirus pandemic shattered many peoples illusion of certainty, and fear quickly moved in.
As all started to come around and see what the coronavirus could teach us over the course of the year, Many realized how important it was to put our hope in God, who was certain.
As all started to come around and see what the coronavirus could teach us over the course of the year, Many realized how important it was to put our hope in God, who was certain.
Yet still, the struggle overcoming fear continued.
Yet still, the struggle overcoming fear continued.
Learning how to remove fear from the mind and heart and live with audacity was a journey. And that journey began with recognizing the spirit of fear.
Learning how to remove fear from the mind and heart and live with audacity was a journey. And that journey began with recognizing the spirit of fear.
What is the spirit of fear?
What is the spirit of fear?
The Spirit Of Fear
The Spirit Of Fear
MEMORY VERSE: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
MEMORY VERSE: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 3:6-10 KJV
BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 3:6-10 KJV
And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.
And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.
And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden.
And the Lord God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou?
And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.
INTRODUCTION: Generally, fear can be described as a strong uncontrollable, unpleasant emotion caused by actual or perceived danger threat.
INTRODUCTION: Generally, fear can be described as a strong uncontrollable, unpleasant emotion caused by actual or perceived danger threat.
It is a basic survival mechanism that signals our body to respond to danger with a fight or flight response.
It is a basic survival mechanism that signals our body to respond to danger with a fight or flight response.
The key word for fear in
Greek language is ‘phobos’ from which the common word ‘phobia’ originates.
The key word for fear in
Greek language is ‘phobos’ from which the common word ‘phobia’ originates.
People have phobia from different things and for different reasons.
People have phobia from different things and for different reasons.
Some people are said to be ‘aquaphobic’ – fear of water, ‘acrophobic’-fear of height, ‘nyctophctic’-fear of darkness, ‘gerascophobic’-fear of ageing, ‘anthropophobic-fear of insects, etc.
Some people are said to be ‘aquaphobic’ – fear of water, ‘acrophobic’-fear of height, ‘nyctophctic’-fear of darkness, ‘gerascophobic’-fear of ageing, ‘anthropophobic-fear of insects, etc.
What does the Bible say about fear?
What does the Bible say about fear?
What are the common causes of fear?
What are the common causes of fear?
Getting answers to these questions and many more shall be the focus of this study.
Getting answers to these questions and many more shall be the focus of this study.
LESSON OUTLINES
LESSON OUTLINES
What Does The Bible Say About Fear?
What Does The Bible Say About Fear?
Biblical Instances of The ‘Spirit Of Fear In Action.
Biblical Instances of The ‘Spirit Of Fear In Action.
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT FEAR?
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT FEAR?
Scriptures clearly reveal that fear is a spirit (2 Timothy 1:7).
Scriptures clearly reveal that fear is a spirit (2 Timothy 1:7).
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
It is a spirit that puts people in bondage and torment (Romans 8:15; 1 John 4:18).
It is a spirit that puts people in bondage and torment (Romans 8:15; 1 John 4:18).
For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
Believers are sometimes tempted to fear (Psalm 55:5) but are delivered from it (Proverbs 1:33; Isaiah 14:3) by trusting in God (Psalm 27:1).
Believers are sometimes tempted to fear (Psalm 55:5) but are delivered from it (Proverbs 1:33; Isaiah 14:3) by trusting in God (Psalm 27:1).
Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, And horror hath overwhelmed me.
But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, And shall be quiet from fear of evil.
And it shall come to pass in the day that the Lord shall give thee rest from thy sorrow, and from thy fear, and from the hard bondage wherein thou wast made to serve,
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
A guilty conscience leads to fear (Genesis 3:8,10; Psalm 53:5; Proverbs 28:1).
A guilty conscience leads to fear (Genesis 3:8,10; Psalm 53:5; Proverbs 28:1).
And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden.
And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.
There were they in great fear, where no fear was: For God hath scattered the bones of him that encampeth against thee: Thou hast put them to shame, because God hath despised them.
The wicked flee when no man pursueth: But the righteous are bold as a lion.
Fear seizes the wicked (Job 15:24; 18:11) and characterises the wicked (Revelation 21:8).
Fear seizes the wicked (Job 15:24; 18:11) and characterises the wicked (Revelation 21:8).
Trouble and anguish shall make him afraid; They shall prevail against him, as a king ready to the battle.
Terrors shall make him afraid on every side, And shall drive him to his feet.
But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
Fear is the consequential opposite of faith (Matthew 14:28-31).
Fear is the consequential opposite of faith (Matthew 14:28-31).
And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.
And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.
But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.
And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?
One can also be a victim of his fears (Job 3:25).
One can also be a victim of his fears (Job 3:25).
For the thing which I greatly feared is come upon me, And that which I was afraid of is come unto me.
For the righteous, the Bible admonishes that they should fear not’ (KJV) in several passages and
for seven key reasons.
For the righteous, the Bible admonishes that they should fear not’ (KJV) in several passages and
for seven key reasons.
This is to assure them of the blessings in the journey of life (Genesis 26:24); supplies in Famine (1 Kings 17:13) protection in peril (2 Kings 6:16);
This is to assure them of the blessings in the journey of life (Genesis 26:24); supplies in Famine (1 Kings 17:13) protection in peril (2 Kings 6:16);
And the Lord appeared unto him the same night, and said, I am the God of Abraham thy father: fear not, for I am with thee, and will bless thee, and multiply thy seed for my servant Abraham’s sake.
And Elijah said unto her, Fear not; go and do as thou hast said: but make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it unto me, and after make for thee and for thy son.
And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them.
strength in weakness (Isaiah 41:10) companionship in trial (Isaiah 43:1-3);
strength in weakness (Isaiah 41:10) companionship in trial (Isaiah 43:1-3);
Fear thou not; for I am with thee: Be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; Yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
But now thus saith the Lord that created thee, O Jacob, And he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.
When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: When thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; Neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.
For I am the Lord thy God, The Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour: I gave Egypt for thy ransom, Ethiopia and Seba for thee.
overshadowing care (Matthew 10:30-31);
overshadowing care (Matthew 10:30-31);
But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.
Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.
and life beyond the grave (Revelation 1:17-18).
and life beyond the grave (Revelation 1:17-18).
And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last:
I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.
BIBLICAL INSTANCES OF THE ‘SPIRIT OF FEAR’ IN ACTION
BIBLICAL INSTANCES OF THE ‘SPIRIT OF FEAR’ IN ACTION
There are instances in the Bible where the spirit of fear operated in or through the lives of some
characters.
There are instances in the Bible where the spirit of fear operated in or through the lives of some
characters.
Adam, in hiding from God and attempting to shift responsibility for his sin upon Eve
(Genesis 3:8-12).
Adam, in hiding from God and attempting to shift responsibility for his sin upon Eve
(Genesis 3:8-12).
And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden.
And the Lord God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou?
And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.
And he said, Who told thee that thou wast naked? Hast thou eaten of the tree, whereof I commanded thee that thou shouldest not eat?
And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat.
Abraham, in calling his wife his Sister (Genesis 12:11-19; 20:2-12).
Abraham, in calling his wife his Sister (Genesis 12:11-19; 20:2-12).
And it came to pass, when he was come near to enter into Egypt, that he said unto Sarai his wife, Behold now, I know that thou art a fair woman to look upon:
Therefore it shall come to pass, when the Egyptians shall see thee, that they shall say, This is his wife: and they will kill me, but they will save thee alive.
Say, I pray thee, thou art my sister: that it may be well with me for thy sake; and my soul shall live because of thee.
And it came to pass, that, when Abram was come into Egypt, the Egyptians beheld the woman that she was very fair.
The princes also of Pharaoh saw her, and commended her before Pharaoh: and the woman was taken into Pharaoh’s house.
And he entreated Abram well for her sake: and he had sheep, and oxen, and he asses, and menservants, and maidservants, and she asses, and camels.
And the Lord plagued Pharaoh and his house with great plagues because of Sarai Abram’s wife.
And Pharaoh called Abram, and said, What is this that thou hast done unto me? why didst thou not tell me that she was thy wife?
Why saidst thou, She is my sister? so I might have taken her to me to wife: now therefore behold thy wife, take her, and go thy way.
And Abraham said of Sarah his wife, She is my sister: and Abimelech king of Gerar sent, and took Sarah.
But God came to Abimelech in a dream by night, and said to him, Behold, thou art but a dead man, for the woman which thou hast taken; for she is a man’s wife.
But Abimelech had not come near her: and he said, Lord, wilt thou slay also a righteous nation?
Said he not unto me, She is my sister? and she, even she herself said, He is my brother: in the integrity of my heart and innocency of my hands have I done this.
And God said unto him in a dream, Yea, I know that thou didst this in the integrity of thy heart; for I also withheld thee from sinning against me: therefore suffered I thee not to touch her.
Now therefore restore the man his wife; for he is a prophet, and he shall pray for thee, and thou shalt live: and if thou restore her not, know thou that thou shalt surely die, thou, and all that are thine.
Therefore Abimelech rose early in the morning, and called all his servants, and told all these things in their ears: and the men were sore afraid.
Then Abimelech called Abraham, and said unto him, What hast thou done unto us? and what have I offended thee, that thou hast brought on me and on my kingdom a great sin? thou hast done deeds unto me that ought not to be done.
And Abimelech said unto Abraham, What sawest thou, that thou hast done this thing?
And Abraham said, Because I thought, Surely the fear of God is not in this place; and they will slay me for my wife’s sake.
And yet indeed she is my sister; she is the daughter of my father, but not the daughter of my mother; and she became my wife.
The Israelites, when Pharaoh and his host pursued in the wilderness before the red sea (Exodus 12:10).
The Israelites, when Pharaoh and his host pursued in the wilderness before the red sea (Exodus 12:10).
And ye shall let nothing of it remain until the morning; and that which remaineth of it until the morning ye shall burn with fire.
Aaron, in yielding to the Israelites, when they demanded an idol (Exodus 32:22-24).
Aaron, in yielding to the Israelites, when they demanded an idol (Exodus 32:22-24).
And Aaron said, Let not the anger of my lord wax hot: thou knowest the people, that they are set on mischief.
For they said unto me, Make us gods, which shall go before us: for as for this Moses, the man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.
And I said unto them, Whosoever hath any gold, let them break it off. So they gave it me: then I cast it into the fire, and there came out this calf.
The ten spies, in dissuading the Israelites from entering the Promised Land (Numbers 13:28, 31-33).
The ten spies, in dissuading the Israelites from entering the Promised Land (Numbers 13:28, 31-33).
Nevertheless the people be strong that dwell in the land, and the cities are walled, and very great: and moreover we saw the children of Anak there.
But the men that went up with him said, We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we.
And they brought up an evil report of the land which they had searched unto the children of Israel, saying, The land, through which we have gone to search it, is a land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that we saw in it are men of a great stature.
And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, which come of the giants: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight.
The Israelites, in the battle against Goliath (1Samuel 17:24).
The Israelites, in the battle against Goliath (1Samuel 17:24).
And all the men of Israel, when they saw the man, fled from him, and were sore afraid.
David, in fleeing from Absalom (2Samuel 15:13-17). Parents of the blind man, who sight restored to (John 9:22).
David, in fleeing from Absalom (2Samuel 15:13-17). Parents of the blind man, who sight restored to (John 9:22).
And there came a messenger to David, saying, The hearts of the men of Israel are after Absalom.
And David said unto all his servants that were with him at Jerusalem, Arise, and let us flee; for we shall not else escape from Absalom: make speed to depart, lest he overtake us suddenly, and bring evil upon us, and smite the city with the edge of the sword.
And the king’s servants said unto the king, Behold, thy servants are ready to do whatsoever my lord the king shall appoint.
And the king went forth, and all his household after him. And the king left ten women, which were concubines, to keep the house.
And the king went forth, and all the people after him, and tarried in a place that was far off.
These words spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue.
The disciples, during the storm at sea (Luke 8:25), When they saw Jesus walking on the sea (Matthew 14:25- 26) and when Jesus was apprehended (Matthew 26:56).
The disciples, during the storm at sea (Luke 8:25), When they saw Jesus walking on the sea (Matthew 14:25- 26) and when Jesus was apprehended (Matthew 26:56).
And he said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, What manner of man is this! for he commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey him.
And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.
And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.
But all this was done, that the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples forsook him, and fled.
Pilate, in condemning Jesus, through fear of the people (John 19:12-16).
Pilate, in condemning Jesus, through fear of the people (John 19:12-16).
And from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him: but the Jews cried out, saying, If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar’s friend: whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar.
When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus forth, and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called the Pavement, but in the Hebrew, Gabbatha.
And it was the preparation of the passover, and about the sixth hour: and he saith unto the Jews, Behold your King!
But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Shall I crucify your King? The chief priests answered, We have no king but Caesar.
Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led him away.
Peter and other Christians, at Antioch (Galatians 2:11-14).
Peter and other Christians, at Antioch (Galatians 2:11-14).
But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.
For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision.
And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation.
But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?
If you are truly a believer, resist any attempt at being a victim of fear (2 Timothy 1:7).
If you are truly a believer, resist any attempt at being a victim of fear (2 Timothy 1:7).
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
CONCLUSION: Fear is not a component of the fruit of the Holy Spirit, therefore refuse to
entertain fear in your life.
CONCLUSION: Fear is not a component of the fruit of the Holy Spirit, therefore refuse to
entertain fear in your life.
QUESTIONS
QUESTIONS
What does the Bible say about fear?Mention scriptural instances where the spirit of fear manifested.
What does the Bible say about fear?Mention scriptural instances where the spirit of fear manifested.
FURTHER READING:
Monday: Proverbs 3:24-26
Tuesday: Psalm 91:4-6
Wednesday: 1 Peter 3:12-14
Thursday: Hebrews 2:14-15
Friday: Luke 12:32,
Saturday: Isaiah 41:13
Sunday: 2 Timothy 1:7
FURTHER READING:
Monday: Proverbs 3:24-26
Tuesday: Psalm 91:4-6
Wednesday: 1 Peter 3:12-14
Thursday: Hebrews 2:14-15
Friday: Luke 12:32,
Saturday: Isaiah 41:13
Sunday: 2 Timothy 1:7
When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: Yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.
Be not afraid of sudden fear, Neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh.
For the Lord shall be thy confidence, And shall keep thy foot from being taken.
He shall cover thee with his feathers, And under his wings shalt thou trust: His truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; Nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; Nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.
And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?
But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;
Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;
And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.
Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.
For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, Saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
At first, this spirit of fear started out small–a bit of a hesitation and a sprinkle of doubt.
Then I started doubting and questioning more .
At first, this spirit of fear started out small–a bit of a hesitation and a sprinkle of doubt.
Then I started doubting and questioning more .
The spirit of fear came upon me in full force and I felt so scared that I couldn’t move.
The spirit of fear came upon me in full force and I felt so scared that I couldn’t move.
I was paralyzed by fear.
That night, I took a deep breath,
I was paralyzed by fear.
That night, I took a deep breath,
What does God and the Bible say about fear?
What does God and the Bible say about fear?
Throughout the Bible, God talks a lot about fear to His people and through His prophets.
Throughout the Bible, God talks a lot about fear to His people and through His prophets.
He tells his people “Do not to Fear.”
He tells his people “Do not to Fear.”
Whenever He speaks directly to one of His people or an angel appears, He says, “Do not be Afraid.”
Isaiah 44:2
“Thus says the Lord who made you, who formed you from the womb and will help you.
Whenever He speaks directly to one of His people or an angel appears, He says, “Do not be Afraid.”
Isaiah 44:2
“Thus says the Lord who made you, who formed you from the womb and will help you.
Thus saith the Lord that made thee, And formed thee from the womb, which will help thee; Fear not, O Jacob, my servant; And thou, Jesurun, whom I have chosen.
Fear not, O Jacob my servant, Jeshurun whom I have chosen.”
Fear not, O Jacob my servant, Jeshurun whom I have chosen.”
Since God says “Fear not” to us, it’s safe to say that we don’t need to hide our fear from God.
Since God says “Fear not” to us, it’s safe to say that we don’t need to hide our fear from God.
He knows when we are fearful because He knows our hearts.
He knows when we are fearful because He knows our hearts.
But as 2 Timothy says (and the rest of the Bible), God doesn’t want us to live in fear. He wants to help us remove fear from the mind and heart.
But as 2 Timothy says (and the rest of the Bible), God doesn’t want us to live in fear. He wants to help us remove fear from the mind and heart.
2 Timothy 1:7 (“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
2 Timothy 1:7 (“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
The passage 2 Timothy 1:7 is a Bible verse about fear that I’ve repeated a lot to myself over the past year, especially when it comes to learning how to remove fear from the mind and heart.
The passage 2 Timothy 1:7 is a Bible verse about fear that I’ve repeated a lot to myself over the past year, especially when it comes to learning how to remove fear from the mind and heart.
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
This Bible verse has reminds us that God did not intend for us to live in fear.
This Bible verse has reminds us that God did not intend for us to live in fear.
Instead, God wants us to live in His Spirit.
Instead, God wants us to live in His Spirit.
A Spirit of power and love and a sound mind.
A Spirit of power and love and a sound mind.
The Holy Spirit within us grants us these strengths.
The Holy Spirit within us grants us these strengths.
With Jesus, we can be confident as we approach God and receive his gifts of love, grace, and mercy (Hebrews 10:19-22).
With Jesus, we can be confident as we approach God and receive his gifts of love, grace, and mercy (Hebrews 10:19-22).
Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,
By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;
And having an high priest over the house of God;
Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
However, when we don’t live with God’s Spirit, we invite fear in.
However, when we don’t live with God’s Spirit, we invite fear in.
Strategies for How to Remove Fear from Mind and Heart
Strategies for How to Remove Fear from Mind and Heart
Fear out of hand can easily control us, separate us from others, keep us from making decisions, and leave us anxious, stressed, and worried.
Fear out of hand can easily control us, separate us from others, keep us from making decisions, and leave us anxious, stressed, and worried.
This is what Many face when I was deciding what they need to do
Fear is what keeps us paralyzed when terrified of making the wrong decision.
This is what Many face when I was deciding what they need to do
Fear is what keeps us paralyzed when terrified of making the wrong decision.
It’s what makes us second guess ourselves and miss out something that could be challenging, stimulating, and a great learning experience.
It’s what makes us second guess ourselves and miss out something that could be challenging, stimulating, and a great learning experience.
For those moments of fear, here are strategies for how to remove fear from mind and heart.
For those moments of fear, here are strategies for how to remove fear from mind and heart.
1. Be Honest about Your Fear
1. Be Honest about Your Fear
Being honest about your fear is so important to facing your fear and letting go of your fear. You can’t face something you don’t admit exists.
Kara J Lovett Co.
Instead of letting your fear pick you apart, pick apart your fear.
Being honest about your fear is so important to facing your fear and letting go of your fear. You can’t face something you don’t admit exists.
Kara J Lovett Co.
Instead of letting your fear pick you apart, pick apart your fear.
Write down what your fear really is.
Write down what your fear really is.
Try to avoid abstracts and find a concrete description of what is really scaring you.
Try to avoid abstracts and find a concrete description of what is really scaring you.
Then you can journal your thoughts around your fear to really understand what your fear is.
Then you can journal your thoughts around your fear to really understand what your fear is.
If you’re not a writer, find a trusted friend and tell them about your fear.
If you’re not a writer, find a trusted friend and tell them about your fear.
You may have a dream for one of your made-up tales to reach someone else or lots of someone elses.
You may have a dream for one of your made-up tales to reach someone else or lots of someone elses.
But you are scared. scared that you are not good enough or doing enough.
But you are scared. scared that you are not good enough or doing enough.
scared that you will mess things up. You fear failure. scared that people won’t take you on.
scared that you will mess things up. You fear failure. scared that people won’t take you on.
You are scared that you will succeed. scared that I don’t even know what “doing the right thing” will look like.
You are scared that you will succeed. scared that I don’t even know what “doing the right thing” will look like.
2. Overcoming Fear Biblically with Scripture
2. Overcoming Fear Biblically with Scripture
Now that the fear has been admitted,
Now that the fear has been admitted,
turn to the Bible to help you remove the fear from your mind and heart.
turn to the Bible to help you remove the fear from your mind and heart.
The Bible is full of stories about people like you and me!
The Bible is full of stories about people like you and me!
Sometimes we take Biblical characters and elevate them on a platform as though they had superpower capabilities that allowed them to accomplish God’s will in such amazing ways.
Sometimes we take Biblical characters and elevate them on a platform as though they had superpower capabilities that allowed them to accomplish God’s will in such amazing ways.
God did use these people in the Bible to accomplish amazing things!
God did use these people in the Bible to accomplish amazing things!
But, they were normal people like you and me.
But, they were normal people like you and me.
God’s power and strength was shown through them for His glory, but they most definitely felt fear just like you and I do.
God’s power and strength was shown through them for His glory, but they most definitely felt fear just like you and I do.
Stories of Fear in the Bible
Stories of Fear in the Bible
Because the people in the Bible experienced fear and had to overcome it, they are great examples for us to ponder when we find ourselves face to face with fear.
Their stories encourage us to stand on faith instead of giving way to fear.
Because the people in the Bible experienced fear and had to overcome it, they are great examples for us to ponder when we find ourselves face to face with fear.
Their stories encourage us to stand on faith instead of giving way to fear.
Here are some examples of stories of fear in the Bible:
Here are some examples of stories of fear in the Bible:
Noah and the Ark:
Noah and the Ark:
Noah felt fear when God told him to build a boat, when everyone ridiculed him, and when the floodwaters came.
Noah felt fear when God told him to build a boat, when everyone ridiculed him, and when the floodwaters came.
He spent a year on the ark before stepping onto land again!
He spent a year on the ark before stepping onto land again!
Moses and the Egyptian Pharaoh:
Moses and the Egyptian Pharaoh:
The Pharaoh had immense power and was holding the Isrealites captive as slaves.
The Pharaoh had immense power and was holding the Isrealites captive as slaves.
Moses felt so much fear that when God asked Moses to tell
Moses felt so much fear that when God asked Moses to tell
Pharaoh to let the Isrealites go, Moses asked God to find someone else.
Pharaoh to let the Isrealites go, Moses asked God to find someone else.
The spies in the Promised Land:
The spies in the Promised Land:
Of the twelve spies that went into the promised land to scope it out, ten of them were filled with fear and reported that the Isrealites should stay put instead of taking the land God promised them.
Of the twelve spies that went into the promised land to scope it out, ten of them were filled with fear and reported that the Isrealites should stay put instead of taking the land God promised them.
Caleb and Joshua likely felt fear, but they encouraged the Isrealites to trust in God’s might instead.
Caleb and Joshua likely felt fear, but they encouraged the Isrealites to trust in God’s might instead.
Queen Esther:
Queen Esther:
Queen Esther feared the loss of all of her family and the Jews, to be killed by the King’s new decree.
Queen Esther feared the loss of all of her family and the Jews, to be killed by the King’s new decree.
She was scared and frightened when she invited the king to a banquet so that she could ask for him to change his decree.
She was scared and frightened when she invited the king to a banquet so that she could ask for him to change his decree.
Ruth:
Ruth:
A Moabite, Ruth lost her husband and father-in-law, but she refused to leave her mother-in-law.
A Moabite, Ruth lost her husband and father-in-law, but she refused to leave her mother-in-law.
She moved to a land not her own, Judah, while fearing the unknown.
She moved to a land not her own, Judah, while fearing the unknown.
David:
David:
Before he was crowned King, David lived in fear as King Saul tried to kill David multiple times.
While we know these Bible stories well, we often don’t think about the fear that the people in these stories likely faced.
Before he was crowned King, David lived in fear as King Saul tried to kill David multiple times.
While we know these Bible stories well, we often don’t think about the fear that the people in these stories likely faced.
Their journeys, like ours, weren’t easy.
Their journeys, like ours, weren’t easy.
They probably hesitated, doubted themselves, and questioned if they’d make it to the light at the end of the tunnel.
They probably hesitated, doubted themselves, and questioned if they’d make it to the light at the end of the tunnel.
Bible Verses about Overcoming Fear
Bible Verses about Overcoming Fear
But thankfully, that’s not the end of the story.
But thankfully, that’s not the end of the story.
Amidst these Biblical stories, God appears and provides us encouragement and plenty of Bible verses about overcoming fear.
Amidst these Biblical stories, God appears and provides us encouragement and plenty of Bible verses about overcoming fear.
Here are a few of my favorite scriptures on fear and deliverance from fear.
Here are a few of my favorite scriptures on fear and deliverance from fear.
Isaiah 41:10:
Isaiah 41:10:
Fear thou not; for I am with thee: Be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; Yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
Isaiah 41:13:
Joshua 1:9:
Luke 1:30:
Isaiah 41:13:
Joshua 1:9:
Luke 1:30:
For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, Saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.
Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.
And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.
Psalm 91:5-6:
Psalm 34:19 :
2 Timothy 4:18
Psalm 91:5-6:
Psalm 34:19 :
2 Timothy 4:18
Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; Nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; Nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
Many are the afflictions of the righteous: But the Lord delivereth him out of them all.
And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
While meditating on these Bible verses about overcoming fear, God will transform our hearts and our minds. By trusting in His word and that He is who He says He is, we allow Him to remove the fear from our minds and hearts.
3. Using Prayer to Remove Fear from Mind and Heart
While meditating on these Bible verses about overcoming fear, God will transform our hearts and our minds. By trusting in His word and that He is who He says He is, we allow Him to remove the fear from our minds and hearts.
3. Using Prayer to Remove Fear from Mind and Heart
Prayer is a powerful tool we as Christians have at our disposal. It is constant communion with God our Father.
When I think about the religions where you have to pray through a priest or be in a temple, I am overcome with gratitude that through Jesus Christ we have direct access to God
Prayer is a powerful tool we as Christians have at our disposal. It is constant communion with God our Father.
When I think about the religions where you have to pray through a priest or be in a temple, I am overcome with gratitude that through Jesus Christ we have direct access to God
(Hebrews 6:19-20).
Psalms 34:17-18 says:
We can pray to God no matter where we are, what we are doing, or what is on our hearts.
(Hebrews 6:19-20).
Psalms 34:17-18 says:
We can pray to God no matter where we are, what we are doing, or what is on our hearts.
Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;
Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth, And delivereth them out of all their troubles.
The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; And saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.
While we may not always have time to open our Bible and look up scriptures about overcoming fear, it takes only moments to pray to God.
While we may not always have time to open our Bible and look up scriptures about overcoming fear, it takes only moments to pray to God.
All of our feelings of fear, worry, and anxiety can be communicated up to God in a moment.
All of our feelings of fear, worry, and anxiety can be communicated up to God in a moment.
What surprises me about prayer is that even without receiving an immediate answer, prayer encourages me and uplifts me.
What surprises me about prayer is that even without receiving an immediate answer, prayer encourages me and uplifts me.
Prayer is an active reminder that:
Prayer is an active reminder that:
God is with me God is watching over me God cares for me God has a sovereign plan God’s strength and Spirit is with me God is trustworthy and faithful When I pray, I actively think about the God to whom I’m praying. In pondering his character, my mind is calmed and peace fills my heart.
God is with me God is watching over me God cares for me God has a sovereign plan God’s strength and Spirit is with me God is trustworthy and faithful When I pray, I actively think about the God to whom I’m praying. In pondering his character, my mind is calmed and peace fills my heart.
I realized that I got caught up in the world’s standards and frustrated by things that are out of my control. But God…He is in control.
How do I pray for fear and anxiety?
I realized that I got caught up in the world’s standards and frustrated by things that are out of my control. But God…He is in control.
How do I pray for fear and anxiety?
For how to pray about fear and anxiety, I recommend starting with scripture.
For how to pray about fear and anxiety, I recommend starting with scripture.
Find a Bible story or a Bible verse about fear that stands out to you.
Find a Bible story or a Bible verse about fear that stands out to you.
Psalm 34 and Psalm 91 are good places to start. In your prayer, read each verse out to the Lord and then pray about that verse.
Psalm 34 and Psalm 91 are good places to start. In your prayer, read each verse out to the Lord and then pray about that verse.
A Psalm of David, when he changed his behaviour before Abimelech; who drove him away, and he departed.
I will bless the Lord at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth.
My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: The humble shall hear thereof, and be glad.
O magnify the Lord with me, And let us exalt his name together.
I sought the Lord, and he heard me, And delivered me from all my fears.
They looked unto him, and were lightened: And their faces were not ashamed.
This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, And saved him out of all his troubles.
The angel of the Lord encampeth Round about them that fear him, and delivereth them.
O taste and see that the Lord is good: Blessed is the man that trusteth in him.
O fear the Lord, ye his saints: For there is no want to them that fear him.
The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: But they that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing.
Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the Lord.
What man is he that desireth life, And loveth many days, that he may see good?
Keep thy tongue from evil, And thy lips from speaking guile.
Depart from evil, and do good; Seek peace, and pursue it.
The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, And his ears are open unto their cry.
The face of the Lord is against them that do evil, To cut off the remembrance of them from the earth.
The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth, And delivereth them out of all their troubles.
The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; And saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.
Many are the afflictions of the righteous: But the Lord delivereth him out of them all.
He keepeth all his bones: Not one of them is broken.
Evil shall slay the wicked: And they that hate the righteous shall be desolate.
The Lord redeemeth the soul of his servants: And none of them that trust in him shall be desolate.
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: My God; in him will I trust.
Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, And from the noisome pestilence.
He shall cover thee with his feathers, And under his wings shalt thou trust: His truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; Nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; Nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
A thousand shall fall at thy side, And ten thousand at thy right hand; But it shall not come nigh thee.
Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold And see the reward of the wicked.
Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, Even the most High, thy habitation;
There shall no evil befall thee, Neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.
For he shall give his angels charge over thee, To keep thee in all thy ways.
They shall bear thee up in their hands, Lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.
Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: The young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.
Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.
He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.
With long life will I satisfy him, And shew him my salvation.
Keep following that pattern until you run out of verses.
Keep following that pattern until you run out of verses.
When you pray about fear and anxiety, consider praying about God’s strength and peace.
When you pray about fear and anxiety, consider praying about God’s strength and peace.
Instead of asking for your circumstances to change, ask him to grant you strength, courage, and peace.
Instead of asking for your circumstances to change, ask him to grant you strength, courage, and peace.
Read over the verses where God promises us these things in scripture and pray them back to God.
John 16:33
You can also find a published prayer or printable about fear and anxiety.
Read over the verses where God promises us these things in scripture and pray them back to God.
John 16:33
You can also find a published prayer or printable about fear and anxiety.
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
Sometimes when we are overwhelmed with fear, it can be hard to find the right words to pray.
Sometimes when we are overwhelmed with fear, it can be hard to find the right words to pray.
Lastly, praise God! Fear can sometimes take over when we have our focus on the wrong things.
Lastly, praise God! Fear can sometimes take over when we have our focus on the wrong things.
Instead of worrying about work, finances, relationships, and all of the things that we can’t control, concentrate on God instead.
Instead of worrying about work, finances, relationships, and all of the things that we can’t control, concentrate on God instead.
Think about how He has shown His love to you and all that He is doing in your life.
Think about how He has shown His love to you and all that He is doing in your life.
Praise Him for his character and steadfast love.
Praise Him for his character and steadfast love.
4. Overcoming Fear in Life by Living by Faith
4. Overcoming Fear in Life by Living by Faith
When I break down my fears, I find that they are caused by one of three things: the unknown, uncertainty, or a disconnect between what God has told me and what the world’s wisdom says.
When I break down my fears, I find that they are caused by one of three things: the unknown, uncertainty, or a disconnect between what God has told me and what the world’s wisdom says.
This fourth strategy for how to remove fear from the mind and heart deals specifically with the last cause.
The world’s wisdom is enticing.
This fourth strategy for how to remove fear from the mind and heart deals specifically with the last cause.
The world’s wisdom is enticing.
It’s popular, it’s accepted, and a lot of people follow it.
It’s popular, it’s accepted, and a lot of people follow it.
But God doesn’t follow the world’s wisdom.
But God doesn’t follow the world’s wisdom.
He asks us to walk out on faith and go against the conventional wisdom to follow Him.
He asks us to walk out on faith and go against the conventional wisdom to follow Him.
Hebrews 11:1 says that
Hebrews 11:1 says that
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
How do Christians overcome fear and anxiety?
How do Christians overcome fear and anxiety?
Christians overcome fear and anxiety by choosing to walk by faith.
Christians overcome fear and anxiety by choosing to walk by faith.
Walking by faith is trusting what we can’t see, which is that God will work things out according to his plan, purpose, and promises.
Walking by faith is trusting what we can’t see, which is that God will work things out according to his plan, purpose, and promises.
It’s deciding to trust God instead of the world’s wisdom.
It’s deciding to trust God instead of the world’s wisdom.
It’s letting God take control instead of forcing our own plans.
It’s letting God take control instead of forcing our own plans.
To remove fear from the mind and heart, we must cling to God’s promises, remembering that He is faithful even when we are not.
To remove fear from the mind and heart, we must cling to God’s promises, remembering that He is faithful even when we are not.
God has called us to live by faith–meaning we may not always see but we must still believe.
Bible Characters who Overcome Fear
God has called us to live by faith–meaning we may not always see but we must still believe.
Bible Characters who Overcome Fear
As the first few Bible verses in Hebrews 11 state, faith is extremely important to the Christian faith.
As the first few Bible verses in Hebrews 11 state, faith is extremely important to the Christian faith.
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
For by it the elders obtained a good report.
Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.
By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.
By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.
By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.
By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:
For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.
Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised.
Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable.
These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.
For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.
And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned.
But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.
By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,
Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called:
Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure.
By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come.
By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff.
By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.
By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king’s commandment.
By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter;
Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;
Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.
By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.
Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them.
By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned.
By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days.
By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.
And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets:
Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions,
Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.
Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:
And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:
They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;
(Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.
And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:
God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect.
In the rest of the chapter, the author of Hebrews outlines the walk of faith for many Bible characters who overcame fear.
In the rest of the chapter, the author of Hebrews outlines the walk of faith for many Bible characters who overcame fear.
The stories in the Bible about fear that I mentioned above are only the start of the story.
The stories in the Bible about fear that I mentioned above are only the start of the story.
Abraham Overcame Fear:
Abraham Overcame Fear:
He left his homeland to live in the promised land. He offered Isaac up as a sacrifice.
He left his homeland to live in the promised land. He offered Isaac up as a sacrifice.
Sarah Overcame Fear:
Sarah Overcame Fear:
She gave birth to Isaac in her old age.
She gave birth to Isaac in her old age.
Joseph Overcame Fear:
Joseph Overcame Fear:
He was sold into salvery by his brothers, and later rose up to become one of the most powerful leaders in Egypt.
He was sold into salvery by his brothers, and later rose up to become one of the most powerful leaders in Egypt.
Moses Overcame Fear:
Moses Overcame Fear:
He chose to be mistreated with God’s people instead of receiving the Pharaoh’s blessings.
He chose to be mistreated with God’s people instead of receiving the Pharaoh’s blessings.
The Israelites Overcame Fear:
The Israelites Overcame Fear:
They crossed the Red Sea to leave Egypt.
They crossed the Red Sea to leave Egypt.
Joshua Overcame Fear:
Joshua Overcame Fear:
The walls of Jericho came tumbling down after they marched around it for seven days.
The walls of Jericho came tumbling down after they marched around it for seven days.
Rahab Overcame Fear:
Rahab Overcame Fear:
She welcomed the spies, and thus did not perish with the city.
She welcomed the spies, and thus did not perish with the city.
The rest of Hebrews 11 has a list of other Bible characters that overcame fear and chose to walk by faith.
Faith is how we can remove fear from our minds and hearts.
The rest of Hebrews 11 has a list of other Bible characters that overcame fear and chose to walk by faith.
Faith is how we can remove fear from our minds and hearts.
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
For by it the elders obtained a good report.
Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.
By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.
By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.
By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.
By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:
For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.
Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised.
Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable.
These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.
For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.
And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned.
But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.
By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,
Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called:
Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure.
By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come.
By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff.
By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.
By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king’s commandment.
By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter;
Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;
Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.
By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.
Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them.
By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned.
By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days.
By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.
And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets:
Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions,
Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.
Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:
And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:
They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;
(Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.
And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:
God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect.
5. Letting it Go: How to Push Through Fear
5. Letting it Go: How to Push Through Fear
last strategy for overcoming fear is learning how to push through fear.
last strategy for overcoming fear is learning how to push through fear.
We have to make the conscious decision to let go of fear and no longer let it control us.
Take the fear and measure it up against God’s goodness, greatness, and abounding love.
We have to make the conscious decision to let go of fear and no longer let it control us.
Take the fear and measure it up against God’s goodness, greatness, and abounding love.
Sometimes we can’t wait for the fear to dissipate before we move.
Sometimes we can’t wait for the fear to dissipate before we move.
God knows when we are fearful or scared.
God knows when we are fearful or scared.
He still asks us to walk by faith. He still speaks to us.
He still asks us to walk by faith. He still speaks to us.
He still uses us for His purposes and glory.
He still uses us for His purposes and glory.
God does all of this despite our fear.
God does all of this despite our fear.
So even if our fear is there, we can still move.
So even if our fear is there, we can still move.
We can still obey God.
We can still obey God.
But this I know, He is faithful to His promises. He is greater than any fear and He will accomplish His sovereign will in us and through us.
But this I know, He is faithful to His promises. He is greater than any fear and He will accomplish His sovereign will in us and through us.