For those of us who have experienced fear – it’s a crippling sensation that can almost leave one paralyzed.
Of course, news and media outlets don’t help – always reminding us of worst-case scenarios and highlighting all the horrific things taking place in this world.
However, if we aren’t careful, our fear of the future can cause us to miss out on all the blessings God has in store for lives – but the good news is you can overcome your fear. Here are a few ways to get you started.
Pray And Meditate On God’s Goodness
All throughout the Bible, God shows His faithfulness to His people throughout the generations.
Situations that seemed impossible and hopeless – God steps in during the final hour – and He always comes through.
From the story of Daniel in the lion’s den to the beautiful way Jesus saved the woman caught in adultery who was about to be stoned to death, God shows us He is faithful.
While we do live in a sinful and broken world, and bad things happen, we know this world is not the end of the story.
And as Christians we know no matter what happens in this world – we can rest in the confidence that God is good, all the time, and He will make all things right.
Sometimes on this side of heaven, and other times not.
But regardless if whether we see justice here on earth, we can read through His Word and see his faithfulness throughout the generations.
If you struggle with fear – pray and ask Him for help, and read through His Word to be reminded and encouraged of how He is faithful through the good and bad times.
Let Go Of Trying To Control
Often we are fearful of the future as we face situations that are out of our control.
Whether you are a victim of hurtful gossip, falsely accused, or in a marital crisis – when we come to terms with our powerlessness over a situation to make things right – fear can creep in.
But this is exactly when we need to “let go” and give our fears to God – and then trust Him with the outcome.
God instructs us to simply obey and serve Him, and follow His commands – and leave the rest up to Him.
If someone is slandering you, or being unnecessarily harsh causing fear and anxiety about what they’ll do next – you could return evil for evil and try to “one up them” …
… or you could remember that God commands us to love our enemies, and pray for those who persecute us.
Perhaps your marriage is struggling, and you’re in fear that this will be the day your wife or husband finally walks out.
You could continue to ruminate on this fear and let it take over your life producing crippling anxiety – or you could continue to love your spouse as the Bible commands, and do your part to obey God.
Managing fear isn’t giving up on life – it’s accepting the truth that we truly don’t know what tomorrow brings – and we can’t control how other people act or respond.
But we can control how we respond, and if we live as Jesus instructs us to, it’s always the wise choice.
Remember He Is With Us
Sickness and death are here as a result of sin, and all the praying in the world doesn’t mean someone won’t still die of cancer or an illness.
God never guarantees healing on this side of heaven, and He doesn’t promise that if we just “pray harder” He will heal someone who is suffering.
But what He DOES promise is that when we walk through the dark waters of life… He WILL be with us.
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” – Isaiah 43:2
In our deepest and darkest moments of despair when we helplessly watch tragedy around us – we can take comfort in the promise that God is right there with us and has not left us to face this battle alone.
So if you struggle with fear – remember to pray and meditate on the pattern of God’s goodness, and trust in His promise to never leave you.
Through drawing close to Him, He will give you a peace that surpasses all understanding, and equip you with His strength to navigate the storms of life.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” – John 3:16-17
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