Overcoming Fear

Franklin Roosevelt assured people that "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself." The Bible makes an even bolder promise: We have nothing to fear, period.

This doesn't mean our lives will be trouble-free — far from it. But the message of God's Word is that fear — of enemies, of the future, of failure, whatever — need not dominate our lives and paralyze.

Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.

You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You welcome me as a guest, anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. Psalm 23:4-5

The LORD is my light and my salvation — so why should I be afraid? The LORD protects me from danger — so why should I tremble? When evil people come to destroy me, when my enemies and foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though a mighty army surrounds me, my heart will know no fear. Even if they attack me, I remain confident. Psalm 27:1-3

God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear, even if earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea.

Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge! A river brings joy to the city of our God, the sacred home of the Most High.

God himself lives in that city; it cannot be destroyed. Psalm 46:1-5

Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but to trust the LORD means safety. Proverbs 29:25

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.

"See, all your angry enemies lie there, confused and ashamed. Anyone who opposes you will die. You will look for them in vain. They will all be gone! I am holding you by your right hand — I, the LORD your God. And I say to you, `Do not be afraid. I am here to help you.'" Isaiah 41:13

"Sorrow and mourning will disappear, and they will be overcome with joy and gladness.

"I, even I, am the one who comforts you. So why are you afraid of mere humans, who wither like the grass and disappear?" Isaiah 51:11-12

"Don't be afraid of those who want to kill you. They can only kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell." Matthew 10:28

"I am leaving you with a gift — peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn't like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid." John 14:27

No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.

And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from his love. Death can't, and life can't. The angels can't, and the demons can't. Our fears for today, our worries about tomorrow, and even the powers of hell can't keep God's love away. Whether we are high above the sky or in the deepest ocean, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:37-39

The Book of God's Promises -- Copyright, 1999 by J. Stephen Lang. All rights reserved, used with permission.