Fear is something that we all experience at some time in our lives. Our bodies cope by sending a surge of adrenaline rushing through us as a “flight or fight” mechanism and we feel ‘wired’. There are so many things of which we are fearful; it may be losing our job, being in a violent relationship, or perhaps the realization of the imminent loss of a loved one. The fear of what is happening in the world with regards to global warming is frightening to many people. We are experiencing so many changes in our weather leading to extremes of temperature, devastating cyclones and floods.
When we are gripped by fear we are robbing ourselves of the potential to be all that God intends us to be. I am not trivializing these fears, but I do want to emphasis one of God’s many promises to us.
”For God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7
Some translations read “self-control” instead of “a sound mind” and I relate more to those words. I know that when I am fearful I cannot think straight, I panic and totally lose my direction. I no longer focus and forget that God has given me the power, love and self-control to overcome any stifling fear. We need to commit these words of Timothy to our memory so that when we are faced with situations beyond our control, we can rise above our fears and know that we have been given the power and the love to overcome.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be strong and to turn to you when I am fearful. When I am afraid help me to remember your promise of power, love and a clear mind so that I may always be what you wish me to be, an instrument of Your peace and Your love. Amen.
By Terry Stead
Used by Permission
Further Reading
• Fear God and You Need Fear Nothing Else – by Helen Lescheid
• No Fear – by Ashlea Massie
• Fear or Love – by Katherine Kehler