Fear Not
Fear not. The Bible speaks to this phrase in many ways. In counseling, I have been blessed to walk alongside clients though anxiety, depression, and brokenness. Believe it or not, fear resides at the core of many people who are hurting.
People are not thinking machines that feel, but rather feeling machines that think. This is an important aspect of our makeup. If we take the time to understand our feelings, we can bring the biblical power and authority of “fear not” into our own lives. Emotional words such as anxious, discouraged, insignificant, helpless, rejected, and confused can make us feel like things are so far beyond our control that even if we could do something to address them, there would be no point. This is where fear can lead us.
How can our relationship with Christ change the way we view fear? In John 16:33, Jesus says, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” Jesus knows our fears and challenges. They are of this world, the very world that he has overcome. Jesus reassures us that he has a way forward that includes peace.
In 2 Timothy 1:7, Paul says, “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” I can recognize my fears and have control over how I address them, knowing that God grants me power to get to the place of peace that Jesus provides.
If you would like to talk about moving from fear to peace, please contact me at [email protected].
Keith Priest, Christian Counselor