26 January 2025
When I am writing about fear in this post, I am writing about negative fear. The following definition of fear “An unpleasant feeling triggered by the perception of danger, real or imagined.(definition from google)”
I heard that ‘fear not’ was mentioned a lot of times in the bible, and I wanted to say a number here, but I read a post from sounds of truth that really spoke to me “ how many times does God have to say something for us to take it seriously? ONCE should be enough.” (https://pastorbrett.wordpress.com/2022/01/18/does-the-bible-really-say-fear-not-365-times/)
It really is true, and I find myself thinking that I have wasted so much time playing host with the spirit of fear in the past. It stopped me from doing things God asked me to do or even enjoying life. Plus, only God knows where life would have taken me. So don’t do it, seek strength from GOD.
2 Timothy 1 verse 7, says to you “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 KJV
https://bible.com/bible/1/2ti.1.7.KJV
The amplified says “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control].”
2 Timothy 1:7 AMP
https://bible.com/bible/1588/2ti.1.7.AMP
One of the most radical things I heard in the year of 2024, was that worry is worship to the devil. Worry is not trusting God.
That slapped me in the face with realisation, kind of like ah, what have I been doing. The challenge that was given after dropping that knowledge was to give God worship before any fear, any worry.
I saw a great explanation in a bible devotion that explains why fear is not the answer. “We should not be intimidated by our enemy. Fear is an acknowledgment of his ability.
God has told us in His Word, over and over, not to fear.
In the New Testament, the main word used for worship can be summarized as submission, or an attitude of submission because of profound reverence.
So, being controlled by fear is submitting to the devil out of respect for his power and ability, and it is worship.
We should not do it!”(https://www.adevotion.org/archive/fear-is-a-form-of-worship#)
Two things came to mind when I was thinking about fear.
One is “But without faith it is impossible to [walk with God and] please Him, for whoever comes [near] to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He rewards those who [earnestly and diligently] seek Him.”
Hebrews 11:6 AMP
https://bible.com/bible/1588/heb.11.6.AMP
I heard of faith as a currency. Today I was thinking God made me and everything else. If I don’t have faith, how am I believing in God? I have had times of entertaining the spirit of fear in the past, but I need to forever remember the times when God has saved me. Or even of God’s love for me. Just looking at the world ,you will see God. Not waxing poetical, but it’s hard to put into words, but I always want to remember to use that currency, Faith.
Second, what came to mind was an image of me, holding up the shield of faith, the shield that stops the flaming arrows of the enemy. I read an excerpt from a devotional, it said the following; “If we have faith in Christ, this will influence the way we live. Our faith can guard us during trials in the same way a shield would during battle. For example, when doubt creeps in and our beliefs are questioned, our faith in Christ will protect us. We can stand firm in knowing what we believe.
In addition, our faith can protect us when we experience anxiety and fear. Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous hand.” If we have faith in God’s promises, we do not need to fear.
It is important to realize that doubt, fear and anxiety are attacks from the enemy. Taking up the shield of faith will protect us and allow us to fight back against these attacks. In addition, as the body of Christ, we can help each other to grow stronger in our faith by living in community.
I encourage you to apply the concept of the shield of faith to your life. Remember that when we put our faith in Christ, we are unstoppable.(https://www.gcu.edu/blog/spiritual-life/weekly-devotional-armor-god-shield-faith#:~:text=Our%20faith%20can%20guard%20us,we%20experience%20anxiety%20and%20fear.)”
I hope this post encourages you to have faith and worship God before anything. I leave you with this prayer from the bible app
PRAYER
God, thank you for inviting me to come to You with all my doubts, fears, and questions.
Instead of relying on my own strength, may I seek You and Your truth in all things. Help me set aside my pride and approach You with humble heart.
Transform my fears into courage, just as You did for Nicodemus. Guide me toward Your truth and Your light. In Jesus’ name, Amen.