Free from the Stronghold of Fear

Fear can immobilize us and stop us from moving forward. The stronghold of fear is invited in because of unfamiliar territory, perceived or real dangers, temptation to do something we know is wrong, guilt from doing something we know was wrong, false guilt, complications in our lives, complications caused by others, emotional or physical pain, and much more.

There are many openings to the stronghold of fear. Fear steals our blessings and causes us to react instead of to act. That’s right. If we fear we cannot have faith because fear doubts. To move ahead and do the things that can improve our lives and the lives of others we must act.

Sometimes it’s easier to give in to fear rather than overcome it. When we give into fear in the extreme we become disabled. A disabled person is not expected to do much to succeed or even to help others. A person without undue fear is never disabled even if he/she is in a wheelchair.

Biblical help to overcome fear:

1. Pray and thank God in advance.

Philippians 4:6 (GW) 6Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks.

This verse doesn’t need much of an explanation if you’ve already received the salvation of Jesus Christ. Go. Get on your knees, ask for help and expect God to answer. When I faced one of the most fearful trials of my Christian life I kept Psalm 91 in my pocket and glanced at it from time to time. It really helped me then and continues to help me now.

2. Have patience.

Proverbs 25:15 With patience you can persuade a ruler, and a soft tongue can break bones.

If what you fear is eminent you may continue to fear it and patience takes a back seat. If you have prayed, wait, and trust God that he will deliver you from any undue fear.

Fear caused by real eminent danger needs addressing in other ways. Here are some helpful links to keeping safe from: Domestic Violence, Stalking, Violent Crimes, Terrorist Crimes

3. Trust God.

Psalm 56:3-4 Even when I am afraid, I still trust you. 4I praise the word of God. I trust God. I am not afraid. What can mere flesh and blood do to me?

The truth is that we lack trust when we don’t see our answer come immediately or when we fear death.Matthew 10:28 Don’t be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Instead, fear the one who can destroy both body and soul in hell.

4. Be Faithful – God is always true to His word.

Romans 3:3 3What if some of them were unfaithful? Can their unfaithfulness cancel God’s faithfulness? 1 Corinthians 1:9 God faithfully keeps his promises. He called you to be partners with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

5. It’s up to us to choose not to fearchoose instead the righteous fear which is an awe-inspiring respect and reverence for the Lord.

Psalm 91:5-7a  You do not need to fear terrors of the night, arrows that fly during the day, 6plagues that roam the dark, epidemics that strike at noon. 7aThey will not come near you,

Proverbs 3:7 Do not consider yourself wise. Fear the Lord, and turn away from evil.

Patricia Redsicker, the owner of WordView Editing, points out that there are 365 references to FEAR NOT  in the Bible. One for each day of the year.

Read the first 100 pages of Escape the Hezbollah and get your free cultural and social issues Bible study guide.

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