Can I talk to you about fear for a minute? Without a doubt there are many different kinds of fear, in fact, there's a fear for just about every situation in life. Fear, being one of our human emotions means it's something all humanity shares.
A textbook definition for the word fear is: an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat. It can take many forms. For example, there is fear of job loss, becoming ill, criticism, fear of death, and the list goes on and on.
It's safe to say that various things can happen in the life of Christians to cause alarm, panic, and fright. After the crucifixion of Jesus the disciples gathered in fear in an upper room. And why not? Their religious leader and teacher had just been executed, and they weren't exactly the most popular group in town, either.
One unfortunate result of fear is that it can bring negative consequences. We saw this with the disciples after his death. They just couldn't do what Jesus wanted them to do; they couldn't keep it together. They were so consumed by fear and negative thoughts that it robbed them of maximum efficiency.
An even bigger problem with fear is that it can lead to even greater fear. It weakens us and puts us into a position that leaves us wide open to the very thing that we fear. But, we don't have to be ruled by fear in our lives. Fear can consume precious time and energy that can otherwise be used in more fulfilling and constructive ways.
Is there something going on in your life, maybe at this very moment, that is causing anxiety, apprehension, and concern? You don't have to go at it alone, As he did for the disciples, the risen Christ can deal with our fears. To this trembling, worried group of followers, Jesus told them, "Peace be with you" (John 20:19). He provides us with courage to face fear, as well.
Although the disciples walked and talked with Jesus himself for three years their faith was not perfect. Jesus had taught them on more than one occasion about his resurrection, but they didn't believe (John 16:33). Similarly, our own faith is immature.
We need to be continuously cultivating and deepening the character of the Lord. Today's disciples often fumble the ball and fail to claim His promises. Neglect such as this can rob us of growing in Christ. Our faith grows by reading the Word and keeping God's promises within our hearts.
Development of our faith requires our meeting with Him on a daily basis. Too many of us simply roll over and accept fear.. It doesn't have to be so. Joy can be found between all of the troubles and travails in our world. Happiness cannot be found apart from the risen Lord.
Search for Jesus' presence today. Let him bring happiness into your life. He is waiting for you. Just as he did for the disciples on that long ago Sunday evening, he can chase away your fears, establish your faith, and reveal a glorious, victorious eternal life after death. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13 - NKJV)
Scripture: 2 Timothy 1:7; Psalm 34:4; Deuteronomy 31:6; Matthew 10:28; Psalm 112:7-8
Prayer: Dear Lord, You are my light and my salvation; the stronghold of my life; Whom or what shall I fear? Amen.
God bless you!
Katherine
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