How Christians Can Face Fear with Faith - The Crosswalk Devotional - October 27

Audio By Carbonatix

How Christians Can Face Fear with Faith
By Megan J. Conner

Bible Reading:
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” - 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)

How do you face fear? They say each one of us has an automatic “fight or flight” reaction when encountering danger.  Whether real or perceived, psychologists have proven every one of us does have a built-in response when we feel afraid. We may dig our heels in, brace ourselves for a fight, and determine that no matter what adversary awaits, we will battle to the bitter end.  Or we may run for the hills as fast as our legs can carry us, covertly slink away quietly and quickly, or crawl back into bed with the covers over our heads to avert a potential threat. 

I am sad to say that my natural inclination leans towards the latter.  However, God saw fit to pair me with a husband who is the exact opposite. His fearlessness, resolute courage, and fierce determination have challenged me to grow in an area I have traditionally felt incredibly weak. Even further, the Lord Himself has stretched and matured me in ways I never thought possible. Like many of you, life has thrown at me some pretty terrifying circumstances that shook me to my very core and literally brought me to my knees. But it was my husband who, very early on in our marriage, taught me today’s scripture: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind,” (2 Tim. 1:7, NKJV).

I have recited this scripture more times than I can even count over the past twenty-plus years. And while God does create those like my husband who naturally bear the heart of a lion, not all of us are natural fighters.  In fact, if we look at scripture, there are numerous accounts and exhortations of God reminding His people not to be afraid. This suggests many, if not all of us, struggle against a spirit of fear. Even King David, one of the Bible’s most renowned warriors, penned his own reminder when his courage wavered.

“The LORD is my light and my salvation;
Whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the strength of my life;
Of whom shall I be afraid?” - Psalm 27:1 (NKJV)

This passage shares with each one of us the key to unshakeable faith when faced with fear. The Lord is our strength and salvation. We do not need to be afraid because He is our fortress and deliverer (Ps. 18:2). He will fight the battle on our behalf (Ex. 14:14), and He promises us that we can be strong and courageous because He goes with us. We do not have to be afraid (Deut. 31:6). 

One of the most inspiring examples of this unshakeable faith in the face of fear can be found in Acts chapter 16, when Paul and Silas were captured, tortured, and imprisoned in Philippi after sharing the gospel with the people there. Scripture states the magistrates tore off their clothes, beat the two men with rods, and then threw them into a cell where they were shackled in chains. How many of us would have crumbled in terror and defeat after such horrific treatment? Yet, Paul and Silas did not attempt to flee, nor did they rise up and fight (at least not in their flesh). Instead, they called upon the One who could battle on their behalf.

“About midnight, Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose.” - Acts 16:25-26 (NIV)

The Lord set the captives free – literally! And, He continues to perform this same miracle today. 

I have always considered fear my greatest nemesis – an enemy that could never be defeated. But God has so proven His faithfulness through trial after trial that I am shocked by the strength and resolve I find in myself when facing unexpected challenges and dangers. God set me free from the bondage of fear! He can do the same for you.

I have also learned God did not give me a spirit of fear. Instead, He granted me power, love, and a sound mind that can resist the temptation to cower in dread and terror. Above all, I have discovered that I can face my fears with faith because I depend wholly and completely on the Lord as my defender and provider. And, you can do the same. If we truly believe that, then the psalm of David rings true for all of us. There really is nothing to fear.

Intersecting Faith & Life:

When faced with fear, it can be difficult to respond in faith. However, the Word of God is a powerful weapon (Eph. 6:10-20). May I encourage you to memorize 2 Tim. 1:7? Write it on an index card, make it the wallpaper on your phone, whatever you need to do to commit it to memory. The next time you feel afraid, speak this scripture out loud to bolster your resolve. You have nothing to fear!

Further Reading:
Psalm 27
Ephesians 6:10-20

Join the conversation! Share how today’s devotional encouraged or challenged you in your walk with Christ.

Photo Credit: © Unsplash/Ismael Paramo 

Megan J. Conner is an author, editor, speaker, avid consumer of literature, writing consultant, and overall lover of all things creative!  She is passionate about the written word and compelling storytelling. Whether that is through imaginative and whimsical children’s literature or faith-based works that allow readers to be immersed in narratives of authentic faith shared through the lives of imperfect people, Megan hopes to remind audiences of the beauty and power of shared stories.

To read more from Megan, check out her Blog, Just One More Chapter.  If you would like to connect further with Megan, you can discover more on her Website, on Facebook, or Instagram.

Check out fantastic resources on Faith, Family, and Fun at Crosswalk.com! 

Related Resource: 9 Confusing Things about God– Answered By a Christian Philosopher

How can God be all-present (omnipresent) and yet be located in the temple and indwell believers? How can God know everything (omniscient) if He doesn't know what it is like to sin? How can God be a necessary Being if it is logically possible He doesn't exist? These are just a few of the tough, philosophical questions Sean McDowell discusses with William Lane Craig.