Living Beyond Fear

LIVING BEYOND FEAR
By Pastor Alexander Redd
August 29, 2023

In the scriptures, fear can be understood in different ways, and it's important to distinguish between healthy and unhealthy fear. Let's explore what the Bible teaches about significant and insignificant fear and how followers of Christ can live fearlessly.

1. Significant Fear:
a) Reverence for God: Fear of God involves a deep sense of awe and respect for who He is. It means recognizing His holiness, power, and authority. This fear leads to wisdom and obedience.

b) Fear of Judgment: The Bible tells us there will be a final judgment where everyone will be held accountable for their actions. This fear motivates believers to live in a way that pleases God.

2. Insignificant Fear:
a) Fear of Man: This refers to the fear of what others think, rejection, or persecution. Jesus encourages His followers not to fear those who can harm the body but to fear God instead. Our focus should be on seeking God's approval rather than human opinions.

b) Anxious Fear: The Bible advises against being anxious and encourages believers to cast their worries upon God. Anxiety and worry can hinder our trust in God's goodness and provision.

To live a fearless life as a follower of Christ, consider the following:

1. Seek God's Presence: Spend time in prayer, worship, and meditation on His Word. Drawing near to God helps overcome fear and brings peace.

2. Trust in God's Promises: The Bible is full of promises assuring God's faithfulness, protection, and provision. Trust in His promises and rely on His character.

3. Renew Your Mind: Replace negative and fearful thoughts with God's truth. Meditate on His promises and align your thinking with His Word.

4. Remember God's Faithfulness: Reflect on how God has been faithful in the past. Remembering His faithfulness strengthens our faith and dispels fear.

5. Surround Yourself with Fellow Believers: Engage with a community of believers who can encourage, support, and pray for one another. Fellowship helps build faith and combat fear.

6. Surrender Control to God: Acknowledge that you do not control everything. Surrender your fears and anxieties to God, trusting Him with the outcome.

Remember, living without fear doesn't mean the absence of fear altogether. Instead, it means overcoming fear through faith in God. By focusing on Him, trusting His promises, and seeking His guidance, believers can experience a life filled with peace and courage.

Biblical references: Proverbs 9:10; Psalm 111:10; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Hebrews 9:27, Matthew 10:28, 1 Peter 5:7; Philippians 4:6-7, Psalm 16:8; Isaiah 41:10, Psalm 56:3-4; Isaiah 41:13, Romans 12:2; Philippians 4:8, Psalm 77:11-12, Hebrews 10:24-25, Proverbs 3:5-6; 1 Peter 5:6-7).