The terror and absolute torment fear can bring in one’s life can be unbearable, resulting in a variety of life-destroying consequences. The messages we receive daily such as: a disaster in another country, a possible job loss, a loved one involved in a horrific car accident, and other life - shaking events, can invite the messenger called: fear. When fear strikes, the response typically is to run from what we are afraid of while the ominous giant laughs at our cowardice.
Fear wears a plethora of guises, from subtle thoughts of uneasiness, to more blatant accusations about one’s future. This messenger wants to bring its victim to a place of doom and gloom seeing no way out; however God has a different message to bring his children: He doesn’t bring fear, HE IS LOVE! 1 John 4:8 sheds some light on fear and what the remedy for fear really is, a deeper knowledge of the love He has for us. When I was growing up, I was given an impression about God, which was extremely contradictory to the truth, seeing Him more as a vengeful, angry, tyrant, who demanded absolute perfection, if I was to be in His good graces. The heart - wrenching truth to my way of thinking back then was: I had a god of fear- and not a God of Love. As a youngster searching for a relationship with His maker - I became very fear-based in everything I did.
How about you? Do you see God as loving and full of mercy, or do you see Him as “hammer-ready”, just waiting for an opportunity to bash you over the head for any inconsistency? There is a very simple way to discern which God you believe in: are you afraid of punishment? Let us examine 1 John4:8 again, which states (my paraphrase) “God’s love casts out all fear, for fear brings with it a load of punishment. If we are afraid of punishment, from God, we still do not have a deep enough grasp of His love for us.” This one scripture brings me hope when the tormenter comes knocking at my door, and wants to camp out for a few days, God does not put fear on us!
I would encourage each of you to fight back when fear strikes, and do not give up fighting until he leaves. Look to the God of the Bible who is gently calling to you: “Be not afraid - I love you!” The enemy called fear is a very tactful foe, so be on the look - out for any strategy he may be planning to send your way. Immediately run into the arms of your LOVING FATHER in heaven, which will drive that fear away from you, and instead of running, hear the Lord say: “stand your ground, I am with you.” - AMEN
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A great read, Rob!
Fear happens when we are no longer in control of circumstance.
Such as, having a panic attack when one goes for a medical,your mind is already made up for the worst possible outcome! So, when the doctor smiles and says;
'All is well', the relief that washes over you is awesome!But that is just one example.
My idea of fear is the 'not knowing'.
I, like you, as a child,was made to believe in an angry, vengeful God. It's taken me years to cop on to the fact that God is an ever-loving, forgiving entity. Peace to you!
