Fear and faith are two opposing forces that impact how we live our lives. Fear immobilizes us and leads us into bondage, while faith empowers us and sets us free. The Bible has a lot to say about both fear and faith and provides insight into how we can move from fear to faith.
The Prevalence of Fear
Fear is a universal human experience. We all deal with fear in various forms throughout our lives. Fear of failure, fear of the unknown, fear of what others think, and fear of death are just some examples. Fear is often rooted in legitimate threats or dangers, but it can also arise from imagined scenarios. Whatever the source, fear tends to exaggerate risk and impair our ability to think clearly and rationally (Psalm 107:27).
In the Bible, fear was a common affliction of humanity. When Adam and Eve sinned, they immediately hid from God out of fear and shame (Genesis 3:8-10). Throughout the Old Testament, there are countless examples of individuals and groups acting out of fear. The Israelites feared lack in the wilderness, which led them to grumble against God (Exodus 16:3). King Saul feared David’s growing popularity and sought to kill him (1 Samuel 18:12). Peter denied knowing Jesus three times out of fear of persecution (Matthew 26:69-75).
Fear continues to be a struggle faced by Christians today. Many believers find themselves crippled by anxiety over situations in life or riddled by worry over the future. Fear erodes our trust in God’s sovereignty and steadfast love for us. It causes us to doubt that God will provide what we need. Unchecked fear leads to emotional paralysis and prevents us from boldly following God’s calling.
The Problem with Fear
The Bible warns of the dangers of giving in to fear. Here are some problems associated with fear:
- Fear distorts reality. It causes us to exaggerate threats and overlook God’s power (1 Samuel 17:11).
- Fear leads to bad decisions. It impairs sound judgement and causes panicked reactions (Genesis 12:12-13).
- Fear erodes faith. It leads us to doubt God’s promises and care for us (Matthew 14:30-31).
- Fear gives rise to sin. It leads us into lies, idolatry, and self-preservation (Genesis 20:2).
- Fear brings torment. It robs our peace and keeps our minds in turmoil (1 John 4:18).
- Fear enslaves us. It prevents us from seizing opportunities and keeps us stagnant (Exodus 14:10-12).
Above all, the Bible condemns fear because it indicates a lack of trust in God. Those who succumb to fear fail to rely on God’s power and believe in His sovereign control over all circumstances. They act as though God is not present or is unable to help them. But Scripture assures us that God is all-powerful and always acts for the good of His children. Giving in to fear shows that our faith is weak and we doubt God’s active involvement in our lives.
The Antidote to Fear
If fear is the antithesis of faith, then faith is the antidote to fear. The way to counter fear is to exercise faith in God. The Bible prescribes faith as the cure for fear:
- Recognize God’s presence. Remember that God is always with you and nothing escapes His sovereign control (Psalm 23:4, Psalm 139:7-10).
- Remember God’s power. No enemy or circumstance is mightier than God who defends and upholds you (Isaiah 41:10).
- Rely on God’s promises. God has assured us He will never forsake us but will supply all we need (Hebrews 13:5-6).
- Receive God’s perfect love. God’s complete love for you casts out all fear (1 John 4:18).
- Realize your position in Christ. As a child of God, nothing can snatch you from His hand (Romans 8:31-39).
- Request God’s help. Ask God for strength, comfort, and deliverance from fear (Psalm 34:4).
Through childlike faith in God, we can overcome crippling fear. We may still feel afraid at times, but we can choose to firmly trust in God’s presence and promises. This act of faith breaks fear’s grip over our lives.
Biblical Examples of Faith Overcoming Fear
The Bible contains many examples of faith triumphing over fear. Looking at how biblical heroes overcame their fears can encourage us to do the same.
Abraham
God called Abraham to leave his homeland and family for an unknown destination. This must have provoked fear and uncertainty for Abraham. But Abraham obeyed God in faith, believing God’s promise to make him into a great nation (Genesis 12:1-4, Hebrews 11:8-10).
Joseph
When Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery, he could have reacted in fear and self-pity. Instead, Joseph confidently trusted that God was working for good in all his circumstances (Genesis 45:5, Genesis 50:20).
Joshua
Leading the Israelites to conquer Canaan was a daunting task that undoubtedly caused Joshua some anxiety. But God repeatedly exhorted Joshua to not fear, reminding him of God’s abiding presence and power (Joshua 1:5-9, Joshua 11:6).
Daniel
Threatened by death, Daniel could have feared obeying God’s law. But with faith in God to deliver him, Daniel boldly continued his prayer routine, free from fear of consequences (Daniel 6:10-23).
Mary
Despite the uncertainty surrounding her pregnancy, Mary responded to the angel’s announcement with faith, not fear. She trusted in God’s faithfulness to fulfill His plan (Luke 1:26-38).
The Bible highlights many other victorious people of faith. While they felt fear like anyone, they consistently chose to trust in God’s sovereignty, power, and faithfulness.
Freedom from Fear
Faith and fear cannot coexist. As we place our faith in God, fear is dispelled. Isaiah 12:2 says “Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid” (ESV). This verse encapsulates the antidote to fear – faith in God which leads to freedom from fear.
God does not want His children living in perpetual fear. He wants us to live in the confidence that He reigns over everything and nothing escapes His loving purposes for us. As we choose to trust in His moment-by-moment presence and provision, we can walk in freedom from crippling fear.
Cultivating a Life of Faith
Changing firmly entrenched thought patterns does not happen overnight. It requires intentionally retraining our minds to default to faith rather than fear. Here are some tips for cultivating a lifestyle of faith:
- Immerse yourself in Scripture. Reading God’s word renews our minds and builds faith (Romans 10:17).
- Remind yourself of biblical truths. Speak truths and promises of God over your mind and circumstances.
- Pray continually. Bring anxieties and fears to God in prayer while recalling His sovereignty and goodness (Philippians 4:6-7).
- Give thanks in all circumstances. Expressing gratitude keeps our focus on God rather than our fears (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).
- Obey God wholeheartedly. Acting in faith, even when afraid, leads to victories which build more faith.
The more we engage in faith-building activities, the more natural it becomes to face life with faith instead of fear. Our faith grows as we daily commit to trusting and obeying God.
God’s Invitation to Live by Faith
God knows we will wrestle with fear and anxiety in this fallen world. But He lovingly calls us to place our faith in Him. God invites us to look to Him as a child looks to loving parents when afraid. He promises to be our rock, refuge, strength, help, and shield as we trust in Him (Psalm 18:2, Psalm 46:1, Psalm 28:7, Psalm 33:20).
Fully embracing faith over fear is challenging. But with God’s help, His perfect love supporting us, we can reject fear’s paralysis and walk forward in freedom. Each act of faith makes space for God to enter powerfully into our lives and circumstances. May we respond to God’s invitation to boldly live by faith, not fear.
