There have been times in my life that I knew what I should do, but fear prevented me from moving forward. Overcoming fear is important. Fear is a common tactic our enemy satan uses against us, but how can we overcome fear?
Nehemiah Overcame Fear by Placing His Focus on the Lord
Nehemiah 4:14 Then as I looked over the situation, I called together the nobles and the rest of the people and said to them, “Don’t be afraid of the enemy! Remember the Lord, who is great and glorious, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes!” 15 When our enemies heard that we knew of their plans and that God had frustrated them, we all returned to our work on the wall.[1]
To overcome fear Nehemiah remembered who the Lord is and looked up to Him. Only God is great and glorious and will fight for His children. When we look down at what we can do we soon run away in fear. Just as the Lord fought for the people to rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, He will fight for each of us today.
Fear May be Real, but God is Bigger
The disciples were on the sea of Galilee in a heavy storm and were fighting heavy waves. During this fearful storm Jesus came walking to them on the water. What they were afraid of was under His feet. Matthew 14: 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!” 27 But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!” [2] When they placed their faith in Jesus, their fear went away. Fear was replaced by faith.
Are you struggling with fear as you read this? Maybe it’s fear of an uncertain future due to what is going on in the world or some other concern. No matter what is going on in the world or your life the Lord is in control. He says to you, take courage. I am here! If you are suffering from fear and anxiety, take time to call on the Lord in prayer.
Prayer
Dear Lord, I am scared, worried, and anxious. I don’t know what is going to happen to me, or my neighbors or my country. Lord, I need you now more than ever. Prop me up, wrap your arms around me and hold me close. Please remind me day by day, hour by hour, minute by minute and second by second that you are here. Help me remember that You love me and have my back. In Jesus’ name. Amen[3]
To learn more about overcoming fear, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/rebuilding-unfinished-hope-opposition
[1,2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.
[3] https://positivelyjane.net/blog/prayers-to-overcome-fear/