Did you know that the Scriptures include the words "Fear not" hundreds of times. Isaiah 35:4, for example, reads, "Say to those with anxious heart, 'Take courage, fear not.'" When we become fearful, we first feel an overwhelming need for protection. Many people build tornado shelters, install fire alarms, buy bigger locks for their doors and purchase thousands of dollars of insurance for traveling. Yet, they are still fearful and want more protection from what "could happen."
Second, we tend to procrastinate and put off decisions we know we should make. Some people actually have a hard time going shopping because they fear they'll make the wrong choices.
Third, we find ourselves erecting barriers to keep others from knowing us. Many people are so afraid of rejection in their relationships that they will risk very little.
Fourth, we become obsessed with failing. This is common with anyone who has ever been fired from a job. Still others who actually do succeed, fear they'll lose it all!
Finally, this fear drives us away from God. Some people are afraid of God and His will for their lives. Yet, the best antidote to fear is praying and yielding our lives to God. Notice what Paul says in Philippians 4:6,7 about fear and worry.
How many things are you to worry about? Nothing. Zero. Instead, you should pray about "everything."
But look at the condition "with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." God is not just a personal slot machine in which we inject our prayers. He wants you to approach Him with an attitude of gratefulness for what He has done and for who He is.
As we pray and yield our lives to God, He will not allow fear to control us, but He will protect our hearts.
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