Let’s start with the fundamentals. Fear is just not from God. While that could seem obvious, lots of us live as if it is. 2 Timothy 1:7 states,
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of affection and of a sound mind.”
So, if God didn’t provide you with fear, what are you holding onto it for? What are you doing by letting it dictate your relationships, your calling, your funds, your self-worth? That fear that’s been hounding you isn’t holy—it’s hellish. And Satan uses it to stop you from walking within the identity and authority that Jesus died to present you.
I lived this. For years, I believed that if I just stayed on top of things, I could avoid pain. Childhood trauma taught me that control was survival. Sexual abuse left me believing that if I could just be adequate, prepared enough, and cautious enough, I could keep bad things from happening. But what I used to be really doing was bowing on the altar of fear: fear of pain, fear of rejection, fear of being exposed, fear of being alone.
Control is fear wearing an influence suit. It looks strong, however it’s driven by weakness. You think you’re protecting yourself. You’re not. You’re imprisoning yourself.
Step 2: Expose the Lies of Fear
Fear at all times lies. It tells you things that feel true but aren’t. It says:
“You’ll never succeed.”
“You’re too broken.”
“God’s guarantees won’t come through.”
“People will leave you.”
“Your children won’t change.”
“You’ll die alone.”
“You can’t handle this.”
“God has forgotten you.”
Let me inform you something – those aren’t thoughts; those are fiery darts and flaming arrows. And Scripture tells us exactly what they’re: Ephesians 6:16 says:
“Take up the shield of faith, with which you’ll be able to extinguish all of the flaming arrows of the evil one.”
Those lies that come dressed as logic? They are flaming arrows, meant to burn up your hope, your joy, and your belief within the goodness of God. The only approach to fight lies is with truth. And the reality is:
-You are greater than a conqueror through Christ (Romans 8:37).
-God is for you, not against you (Romans 8:31).
-He has good plans to your future (Jeremiah 29:11).
-He won’t ever leave or forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:6).
-His perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18).
If you don’t replace the lies of fear with the reality of God’s Word, fear will develop into your default.
Photo Credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/AaronAmat
