Fear is an unpleasant emotion that is usually triggered by a perceived or real threat of danger, pain or harm. It manifests as a general feeling or anxiety over the likelihood of a negative occurrence that may never become reality. It is indeed a paralysing force that often leads to self-doubt, timidity and lack of confidence, and if allowed to fester, it usually deals irreparable blows on its victim over time. Speaking on the debilitating effects of fear, Proverbs 22:13 says:
“The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.”
Fear prevents its victims from investing quality time, effort and money into profitable ventures, rendering them powerless and denying them bountiful harvest. Have you been held captive by fear? May the Lord deliver you from the spirit of fear and its paralysing effects today in Jesus’ Name. To liberate His people from the bondage of fear, God repeatedly encouraged them to “fear not” several times in the Bible. What He said to them, He also says to you now: “Fear not”. Be strengthened by His assuring words in Isaiah 41:10, saying:
“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”

In light of God’s promise in Isaiah 41:10-13, it is clear that He expects us to allow our faith in Him shape the realities of our lives rather than let fear dominate us. God is disappointed whenever we exercise fear instead of faith. When the disciples of Jesus were confronted by a ranging storm which frightened them, Jesus asked them in Mark 4:40b:
“Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?”
This shows us that God sees people who exhibit fear as having little or no faith at all. Faith is the antidote to fear, and anyone who will overcome fear must develop strong faith in God. Complete trust and faith in God is a central pillar of our life as Christians. The Holy Spirit assures us that whoever believes in Christ will not be disappointed or confounded (1st Peter 2:6). Whenever frightening events happen around us or we are overwhelmed by difficult circumstances of life, when danger lurks and failure or death stares us in the face, God expects us to safely trust in His love and ability to see us through such difficult times. May the anchor of your faith continually hold on to God forever in Jesus’ Name.
Written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye.