What Does The Bible Say About Fear?
Fear is an emotion that is triggered by a perceived threat. It is a basic survival mechanism that is hardwired into our brains. When we sense danger, our bodies automatically go into “fight or flight” mode in order to protect us from harm.
What does the Bible say about fear? It does warn against it. Do not fear is stated forty-five times in the Bible. God knew ahead of time what fear will do to a person. Let’s get a better understanding of fear from both sides as you read further.
Fear can be a useful response when it motivates us to take action and avoid dangerous situations. However, it can also become problematic when it is out of proportion to the actual threat or when it prevents us from living our lives fully.
Fear can lead to anxiety disorders, phobias, and other mental health problems. treatment for fear usually involves some combination of psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. It can be a powerful emotion that can have a significant impact on a person’s life. Fear can lead to stress and even depression.
Fear can also cause physical symptoms such as sweating, racing heart, and difficulty breathing. Fear is a normal emotion that helps us stay safe in dangerous situations. However, when fear becomes excessive or irrational, it can be debilitating.
In fact, the Bible prophesied that men’s hearts will fail them because of fear during hard times.
“And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; men’s hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Luke 21:25-26
Many people today chase after the things that will cause them feelings of fear. Halloween, haunted houses and horror movies make millions annually as they present our minds with hypothetical scenarios. According to How To Start An LLC a large haunted house can net up to 3million dollars a year, and smaller ones can make about fifty thousand a year.
According to azcentral.com in 2012 horror films grossed four hundred and thirteen million dollars. The temporal evil elicits a powerful emotional response. This type of fear is sinful fear.
When we dabble in the demonic realm we are inviting evil into our atmosphere and thus unknowingly accepting the consequences of those evil ways.
God’s Word says that He didn’t give us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. This clearly indicates that fear is a spirit and it will cause an unstable mind.
What are the different types of fear?
There is a godly fear. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, according to Proverbs 1:6. This is a healthy awareness of the power of God and the eternal ramifications of rejecting Him. It is an awe of His sovereign majesty and authority.
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” – Psalm 23:4 This Psalm reminds us that as we walk through this Christian life we can be at peace knowing that our Heavenly Father is right beside us leading us on the paths of righteousness.
A good understanding of the awe of God in this daily life will allow a little faith to overwhelm us with the peace of God.
There is a legitimate fear when a doctor gives a bad report of our health. However, when we look at the whole situation with Jesus Christ, the Lord of hosts of angels seated at the right hand of God the Father, interceding for us as God’s people there is always the possibility of a miracle. In the worst-case scenario, our eternal life is already guaranteed.
Bible Verses that remind us not to fear:
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7
So we can say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?'” – Hebrews 13:6
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 Here Joshua was facing impossible odds and leading a large group of young people born to sinful, fearful complainers.
How do I stop being afraid?
First we need to answer the question- Is fear a sin?
In the New Testament John states “This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
In these Bible verses, we have read that the perfect love of God will cause sin to be taken away from us and that we need to be made perfect in His love. Fear has everything to do with impending punishment and God is not in the one that is afraid.
By asking God for forgiveness for being disobedient like Adam and Eve were in the garden and inviting the spirit of fear into our lives and into our minds, He promises to forgive that sinful behavior and fill us with perfect peace.
God commanded people in the Old Testament repeatedly, not to be afraid. Fear shows a lack of trust and faith in God’s ability to keep us safe. It’s not mere respect for God, but an absolute acceptance of God’s authority over all situations.
So, to stop being afraid one must simply say NO! to fear and to the temptation to indulge in social behaviors that would put us into fearful positions. Ask our loving Heavenly Father to protect us and walk in that perfect love. Learn more about prayer here.
Is it ever O.K. to be afraid?
The simple answer is yes. God put a warning system inside each of us so that we can be aware of the evil around us and stay clear of it. There are times when we have no control over what is happening around us and at those times call out to God for protection and peace. Keep calling out until the peace returns.
Evil does reign here on earth since sin entered. Jesus said,” If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
Holy Spirit will fill you with boldness, wisdom and understanding along with many miraculous gifts. By reading Acts chapter 2 you will gain a greater knowledge of who Holy Spirit is and why you would want more of Him in your life.
Fear is evil and robs people of their peace. Fear dictates the mindset of it’s victims. Fear is not worth the consequences. It offers no good things.
Having Christ Jesus in your life will force fear to go. You are required to take action in the process by telling fear to go and to tell Jesus He is the one in charge of every situation. Reading What does it mean to be a Christian will give a more extensive understanding.
Accept the love of God and read the Word of God then speak to Him and listen for His voice. Be obedient and You will see your world change. You will notice it in the little things at first and then different things will come to mind to stay in peace.
P.S. (Plain and Simple)What does the Bible say about fear…
These are just a few of the many verses in the Bible that talk about fear. As you can see, God tells us not to be afraid, and that He will always be with us. He also promises to give us peace in every situation. So if you’re feeling afraid, remember what the Bible says and trust in God’s protection.
Resources:
howtostartanllc.com
yourbusiness.azcentral.com
The Holy Bible, NIV and KJV