Fear...

"You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that — and shudder." (James 2:19) So the demons fear God… they actually shudder in fear. Should I? Who likes fear?

Psalm 89:7 tells us, “In the council of the holy ones God is greatly feared; he is more awesome than all who surround him.” God, the creator of the universe, of uncountable stars and sand, the numberer of the hairs on your head, clearly is awesome. He is all powerful and we better not get on His bad side. Certainly He is worthy of our fearful respect. But that’s where fear ends.

“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (2 Tim. 1:7)

Not only has God not given us the spirit of fear, but you and I have actually been commanded not to fear. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Josh. 1:9) That’s quite a command, and quite a promise.

A perfect God wouldn’t command us to do something and not show us how to do it. “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.” (1 John 4:18) In love we find an answer. If we love the Lord with all our hearts, and love our neighbors as ourselves, God will help us overcome the debilitating fear that is so common in this dark world.

Fellowship with our brothers in Christ strengthens us. We are not alone. I absolutely love the incredible friends and family that God has blessed me and my family with, great people who struggle with fear, but radiate love and courage from their relationship with Christ. There’s been tremendous change in my life and, after God’s grace, this change has largely come about from the impact of Godly friends. “Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.” (1 Peter 2:17)

Life on Earth is awesome and short. It will be filled with fear at times, but we know we win with the ultimate Victory of Christ. We will embrace God’s promises and not fear, but accept the courage and authority He gives us.

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.” (1 Cor. 16:13)