Hi, friends. Let’s talk about fear today.
If you look up fear in the dictionary, here is what it says: an unpleasant often strong emotion caused by anticipation or awareness of danger. Hmmm… Is fear unpleasant? That seems like not a strong enough word for fear. Being hungry is unpleasant. Having too tight of pants on is unpleasant. I’m not sure it comes to the same level of emotion as fear. The dictionary is right about it being a strong emotion. Sometimes it can be completely overwhelming and paralyzing. And sometimes it can take over an entire life.
Fear is a natural human emotion. We all experience it at some point and at some level. Some of us are more prone to fear than others. No matter how fear enters your life, it doesn't have to control you. In our journey of recovery, fear will likely be an unwelcome companion in the early days, creeping in, triggering doubts, anxieties, and uncertainties. Fear comes from the evil one. Fear does not come from God. And the evil one wants to keep you bound and chained in your addiction and to him. Thankfully, you can break free.
God repeatedly encourages us not to fear. In fact, the phrase "Fear not" appears 365 times in the Bible. Coincidence? I doubt it. You could read a verse about not fearing every day for an entire year., a constant reassurance from God for us to live without fear each and every beautiful day.
Let’s look at some verses:
Isaiah 41:10 (NLT) "Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand."
When fear grips our hearts, we can find strength in knowing that God is always with us. Always. He’s never more than a breath, a thought away. His presence gives us the courage to face challenges. We're not alone. He promises to support, strengthen, and uphold us with His victorious hand. I love to picture from sweet Father holding me up, supporting me, and taking care of me. He is and He does. Honestly, what more do I need?
Psalm 23:4 (NLT) "Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me."
Psalm 23 is popular for a reason. It’s a psalm full of comfort and promises. In our recovery journey, we may, actually we will, encounter dark and challenging times. That is just part of the path. We need to remember that God is not distant. He walks alongside us, offering protection and help. Even in the darkest moments, His presence brings reassurance and peace. Should we be afraid when He is right there, waiting to help? Nope. We should not.
Joshua 1:9 (NLT) "This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
God commands us to be strong and courageous. His assurance of being with us wherever we go gives us the confidence to face any situation. God's presence empowers us to move forward without fear. He means what He says. If He says He will be with us wherever we go, count on it.
John 14:27 (NLT) "I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid."
Jesus offers us a unique gift of peace that transcends worldly understanding. When fear tries to disturb our peace, we can rely on the peace that Jesus gives, a peace that overcomes our troubles and anxieties. We need to let His perfect peace calm us in every circumstance and give us courage for every challenge we face.
2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT) "For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline."
Fear doesn’t align with what God has given us. It does not come from Him. He gifts us power, love, and self-discipline to confront fear. Instead of fear, we're empowered to live boldly, embracing His gifts in our daily lives.
When you have moments of fear, stop. Ask the Holy Spirit to wash peace and comfort over you. Ask to “FEEL” His presence in a tangible way. Don’t let the evil one derail you and lead you astray. Or worse, put the chains of addiction back on you. There’s no reason to be afraid. God told us that 365 times. And God says it, believe it.
Don’t be afraid. God is with us. He’s with me. He’s with you. He’s just there, waiting for your call. He promises His presence, His strength, and His peace. He gave us a spirit of power and love. Fear doesn't align with the gifts He has poured upon us. He promises to walk with us through every situation. Let Him.
Have a wonderfully recovered day!
Susanne
