“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;” Philippians 4:6

Not only is anxiety uncomfortable; it also leads to negative consequences. For example, reasoning becomes cloudy when permeated with worry.  So an anxious person will have trouble making wise decisions.  Fear of failure may also lead to procrastination or lack of productivity.

Apprehension can devastate personal and spiritual growth, relationships, and work. So conquering fear is important.

These four steps can help:

1. Identify The Fear. Ask yourself; What are the circumstances surrounding my feelings? What triggered them? What message am I telling myself?

2. Turn To The Lord.  Remember that God loves you and desires a close relationship with you.  He is in sovereign control of your situation, so bring your apprehension to Him.

3. Rebuke The Fear:  You have authority and power in Jesus’ name to reject what isn’t from Him.  Meditate on Scripture passages such as Matthew 10:31 and Proverbs 1:33.  Let God’s truth replace and wrong thinking.

4. Cling To Your Heavenly Father.  Take your focus off your circumstances, and look to the One who promises His help.  The Bible gives this assurance: “Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”  (Isaiah 41:10)

Circumstances are external and often beyond your control.  But your response originates within.  It’s amazing how fears diminish in the Father’s presence.

By Dr. Charles Stanley
Used by permission
https://www.intouch.org/

FURTHER READING

Facing a Wall of Fear?

Facing Your Problems

Quiet Courage

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