Faith Over Fear
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“For God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of power, love, and sound judgment” (1 Timothy 1:7).
Scrolling through the headlines, it’s easy to see a theme develop: fear. The news outlets likely see an uptick in clicks when their headlines are written to induce fear. Of course, this means more money for them. It means more fear for the readers.
The world wants us to believe fear is an appropriate response to the world we live in. The world is convinced we should fear disease, war, climate change, rising crime, different political views, and a myriad of other issues.
But is fear really the best response to these challenges?
The world does have real problems. Pain and misery are real. I don’t need to list all the ills of this world for you. You are quite aware the current climate is turbulent. But the world has experienced turbulent times before. Disease has wreaked havoc. Wars have always been with us. Major crime waves have come and gone. Yet here we are.
Our world once again is facing serious issues. My point is not that humanity’s problems are over-exaggerated. I believe we need to be working to solve these wicked problems. But as Christians, we need to daily remind ourselves that God is sovereign. He is sovereign over the events of your personal life and over mankind.
Around 700 BC, God told King Cyrus just how sovereign He is:
“I form light and create darkness; I make well-being and create calamity; I am the Lord, who does all these things. Shower, O heavens, from above, and let the clouds rain down righteousness; let the earth open, that salvation and righteousness may bear fruit; let the earth cause them both to sprout; I the Lord have created it” (Isaiah 45:7-8).
Might we benefit by stopping and evaluating whether fear is going to help us or hinder us?
Is humanity better off having Christians bring more fear to the table – or more courage?
As Christians, we know fear comes from the enemy of mankind, Satan. Romans 8:15 teaches us that we “have not received a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, ‘Abba! Father!’”
This passage is not describing the fear that causes our adrenaline to spike because we need to run away from a bear! Nor is it describing the fear or reverence we are supposed to have for God Almighty. Rather, Scripture wants us to avoid the fear that causes anxiety, panic and/or paralysis. That kind of fear causes you to “worry about tomorrow” (Matt. 6:34).
This kind of fear is unhealthy and unbiblical. It is suffocating to ourselves and those around us. Yet, most news headlines in the era of COVID are designed to increase our fears. To play on our fears. To make money from our fears. The world wants us to think with our emotions and set aside all rational thinking. The world wants us to set aside our faith and biblical instruction.
Of course, who can blame the world? They don't know any better. It’s what the world has always done. It’s their M.O. We should not be surprised when the world acts “worldly.” After all, “the whole world lies in the power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19).
So, what is the proper Christian response to these turbulent times?
First, it would behoove some of us to take a break from the news. When I get sucked into the news cycle, I feel my anxiety and fear levels rising. I start to view the world through a right versus wrong lens as I seek to lay blame on others. And yes, there are responsible parties for many of our issues.
But I don’t think God sees the world this way. The Great Commission is about reaching out to people in the world, not blaming them. We are to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matt. 28:19).
Taking a break from the news allows me to gain a fresh perspective. It allows me the chance to soak in what the Spirit of God is doing, and desires to do, in and around me.
Doesn’t that sound nice? To sit and soak in whatever the Spirit of God is speaking to you? Not the media. With your Bible open and a cup of coffee at your side, why not bathe in God’s grace and goodness?
Second, as Christians we believe our final authority on all matters of life and death is God’s Word. The Bible clearly teaches us not to fear. There are no exceptions to this command. Written down on more than 300 occasions, we can be sure it is a big deal.
Are we supposed to fear viruses? Nope. Are we supposed to fear political upheaval? Nope. We are not even supposed to fear death itself. After all, God has already numbered our days long before COVID. His Word is clear:
“Your eyes saw me when I was formless; all my days were written in Your book and planned before a single one of them began” (Psalm 139:16).
Fear will not help you. It is not your friend. As Zach Williams’ popular song is titled, “Fear is a liar.” Fear is also a joy robber. Fear is an enemy to your peace and clear thinking. Fear is your self-made prison.
Should we be concerned about problems? Absolutely. But fear? Nope. Scripture is clear that we are to have courage and fear not.
Finally, Christians are to focus on serving others. I commented to a colleague the other day that I am the most joyful when I am serving and loving others. When I feel most anxious or depressed, it’s usually because I am inward focused. "How can I get what I want? Why don’t they see things how I see them?” This way of thinking leads to more anxiety and fear.
But when I focus my attention on reaching others with the Good News and for opportunities to serve and make a difference, my attitude is immediately uplifted. This is how God has wired us. The Word teaches us to “do nothing out of rivalry or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves” (Phil. 2:3).
I don’t know about you, but I am going to take a break from the news. I need a break from drama and politics. Just because politicians are constantly bickering and fighting does not mean I have to listen.
Instead, I am going to brew some coffee and spend some quality time with God. I want to soak up wisdom from His rich Word, allowing His Spirit to minister to my heart, soul, and mind. And then I am going to share Him with others so they can experience the same transformation I’ve experienced.
Written by Levi Hazen, Executive Director
1. What are you currently fearful of that needs to be given over to God right now? Is there something you need to confess to God about your fears?
2. What’s stopping you from putting down your phone and grabbing your Bible and coffee now?