Wednesday, May 26, 2021

It’s Dangerous to Be Afraid

 

But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death (Revelation 21:8).

The world says that fear is a natural occurrence in life, but it’s unnatural and dangerous to God's children. Jesus did not give us a spirit of fear but one of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). The Greek definition of fear is alarm, fright, or terror. Over one hundred times in the Bible, Jesus tells us to fear not.

Fear is dangerous because it is a gateway spirit for many other unclean spirits such as selfishness, doubt, disobedience, and sickness. When we walk in the spirit of fear, we open the door for selfishness. If Jesus calls us to accomplish a significant task, fear will say, “you can’t do it because you lack the resources,” therefore, we give in and do what we want rather than what God requires from us. Fear will cause us to doubt God’s words and His promises to us. If a situation doesn’t “look” like what God has spoken to us or about us, then we doubt God. If Jesus specifically told you that you shall live and not die (Psalm 118:17), then regardless of what your circumstances look like, you can take God at His word (Deuteronomy 7:9). When the spirit of doubt comes in, it brings its closest kin, disobedience.

When we don’t trust God and take Him at His word, we will not follow His instructions. If God tells you to quit your job and move across the country to another state, do not question God about provision. Jesus will not send us places or give us instruction without the resources or people in place. Fear also damages our bodies. It causes ulcers, weakens the immune system, damages the cardiovascular system, brings about premature aging and early death (Delagran, Louise, MA, Med, author of,  “Impact of Fear and Anxiety,” from the Taking Charge of Your Health & Wellbeing of the University of Minnesota).

Just imagine how many opportunities, relationships, and blessings we’ve missed out on because we have allowed fear to constrict us. Jesus does not want us to live in fear. He came so that we may have life and life more abundantly (John 10:10).

If you are guilty of living in fear or have been fearful, repent. Asks Jesus to forgive you for not agreeing with His word – be strong and of good courage, be not afraid, neither be dismayed: for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go (Joshua 1:9). If fear has a stronghold on you, then fast and pray (Mark 9:29). Find a scripture that speaks to your circumstance and start speaking over yourself and to your circumstances. Post the scripture throughout your home. Set a timer on your phone to remind yourself when to say the scripture.

Remember, ladies, “People that love freedom will, in the end, be free,” Simón Bolívar. So let’s walk in the spirit of liberty (Galatians 5:1), power, love, and of a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7).

 

XOXO,

 

Jay

 

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