Overcome Fear

Text: Matthew 24: 22-30; 2 Timothy 1:7

Fear is an unpleasant feeling of anxiety or apprehension caused by the presence or anticipation of danger. It could come in form of frightening thoughts or unsettled mind. Fear is the opposite of faith or courage. Most times, it comes as a result of ignorance of God's power, lack of constant fellowship with God and listening to negative stories from others' experiences.

In the text of Timothy above, Paul, the apostle encouraged Timothy to be bold and courageous. Timothy, a young minister, was experiencing great opposition to his messages and to himself as a leader. Paul, therefore, urged him not to allow intimidation, or else, his effectiveness in the work of God will be neutralized. Any Christian who desires to serve God as Timothy did, must not allow fear of any kind to occupy his heart. No wonder , the Bible admonishes us to "fear not".

Fear is not of God. Scripture references abound that discourages fear. Such references include: Joshua 1:9; Isaiah 41:10; Genesis 26:24; Isaiah 43:1; Matthew 10:31; and Revelation 1:17. Some Christians today are afraid because of the uncertainty of the future. Some fear men - their parents, bosses, co-workers, neighbours, etc. Others fear enemies, evil spirits, and even death. Some are afraid of failure. Whatever the nature of fear in the life of any Christian, the consequences are always fatal. For this reason, we must endeavor to deal with it.

Fear either paralyses action or leads to irrational decisions. Saul, the first king of Israel, disobeyed God for fear of failure in battle. Esau sold his birthright for fear of death. Orpah went back from following her mother-in-law, Naomi, for fear of the future. Peter, the outspoken apostle, denied his Master for fear of what the people might do to him.

The result of fear cold be terrible. It must, therefore, not be found in the life of any Christian. Many Bible characters experienced it, but eventually overcame. A Christian who experiences fear must first examine his or her life to ensure that there is no sin. They will need to develop their faith through constant reading, hearing and meditation on God's Word.

Constant prayer and fellowship with God will build up courage in any Christian. Listening to testimonies of what God had done in the past will also help develop faith and courage to live for God. May the Lord make you bold as a lion.

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