Dealing With Fear

Dealing with fear is one of the most difficult challenges that we will face in life. We seemed to be programmed to fear almost everything. We have a fear of failure, of embarrassment, of rejection, of change, and a big one, the fear of death. There are many other things that we fear, but I think most of us can identify with at least a couple of the ones on this list. Fear leads to worry and anxiety. If these emotions go unchecked, they can start manifesting into physical issues.  

The Chinese Philosopher Lao Tzu stated that “there is no illusion greater than fear”.  Studies suggest that a significant portion of the things we worry about never materialize. One such study conducted at Penn State University of people with General Anxiety Disorder (GAD), found that 91.4% of their predictive worries did not come true. Another study done at Cornell University found that 85% of the things people worried about never happen. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) studies predicted that only about 8.6% of the things we worry about will ever come true. 

So, what does all this mean? We generally worry too much and let fear control too much of our lives. There is hope and there are organizations that will help. If you have been crippled by fear and anxiety, seek help. Find resources that can assist you with dealing with the issue. I’ve listed some resources in the appendix located at the end of this article. Don’t ignore what is going on with you. As stated earlier, fear, anxiety and worry left unchecked will start to affect your life both emotionally and physically. 

Christians can deal with fear by trusting in God, meditating on His promises, and seeking His presence through prayer and studying His Word.  

Here are some biblical principles to help overcome fear: (ChatGPT)  

1. Trust in God’s Sovereignty – Fear often arises from uncertainty, but Christians are called to trust that God is in control. Isaiah 41:10 says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” 
2. Pray for Peace – Bringing fears to God in prayer helps replace anxiety with His peace. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages believers to pray instead of worrying, promising that “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” 
3. Meditate on God’s Word – Scripture is filled with reminders that God is our refuge. Psalm 56:3 says, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” Filling the mind with God’s truth helps combat fear. 
4. Rely on the Holy Spirit – The Spirit gives believers power, love, and self-discipline, as seen in 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” 
5. Take Steps of Faith – Fear can be paralyzing, but trusting God means stepping out in faith despite uncertainty. Joshua 1:9 reminds believers to “be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” 
6. Surround Yourself with Faithful Community – Being in fellowship with other believers provides encouragement and support when fear arises (Hebrews 10:24-25). 
7. Remember God’s Faithfulness – Reflecting on past ways God has provided and protected can strengthen faith. Psalm 77:11 says, “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old.” 

Fear is a natural human emotion, but Christians are called to face it with faith, knowing that God is always present and faithful.

Appendix:

• MentalHealthHotline.org (Connect with trained mental health experts 24/7 professional solutions. 100% Confidential & 100% Free)
• National Institute of Mental Health (nimh.nih.gov)
• Anxiety and Depression Association of America – ADAA (adaa.org)
• National Alliance of Mental Illness (nami.org/about-mental-illness/mental-health-conditions/anxiety-disorders/)
• Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (https://billygraham.org/articles/how-to-overcome-fear-anxiety-and-worry)
•  Biblical Counseling Center.org (https://biblicalcounselingcenter.org/how-jesus-addressed-fear-worry-and-anxiety/)