What do we do when fear torments us? Produces panic?
Face the lies behind fear and combat them with truth. Fight them with a grateful heart toward God.
Psalm 139 is a perfect place to start! The writer explains that God has searched us (an intense investigation, thorough examination). God knows EVERY thought, word, and action we take. This does not cause fear in those who love Him. Instead, it causes peace. Why? Because God is on the side of those who have a personal relationship with Him (Romans 8:31-33). Believers’ fear diminishes because we are no longer separated from God by our sin. He completely forgives us.
But what about fear of the events of this life? That fear that brings… indecisiveness? Confusion? Depression? Anxiety? Even people who love Jesus can suffer with this type of fear?
Combat fear with truth. Seek to dig out the roots of the lies
Some truths:
The truth is, God lives, through His Holy Spirit, in every person who has a relationship with Jesus (Ephesians 4:30).
The truth is, God has given me “tools” to fight the battle against fear (Ephesians 6:10-20).
The truth is, God did not give us a spirit of fear (2 Timothy 1:7). Psalm 139:5 confirms the closeness and intimacy we have with our Creator. This intimacy means I’m not alone.
The truth is, God has whatever I fear under His control (Psalm 46).
The truth is, whatever really tough situation I face, I’m not facing it alone (Proverbs 19:21).
The truth is, as an active member of the church, I have other believers who support me in the tough times.
The truth is, believers are “engraved” (NIV) on the hands of God (Isaiah 49:15-16).
The truth is, what looks like a curse, can really be seen as a blessing. A dear young friend has been facing a rough situation in school. Not her doing. Someone else violated her privacy. Grades dropped. The virus came. But God! She now has relief from the situation. School grades are now pass/fail….the not so good grades go away and she passes! Thank you, God, for the virus!
You might refer to this as turning lemons into lemonade, or seeing the silver lining. That is true…for those who love Jesus.
The truth is, that is not always true for those who reject Him. Why not turn to Jesus, and experience His amazing embrace of love and kindness (John 3:16)? Write me. I’d be thrilled to help you know Jesus.
Personally, my greatest fear is for those who are most dear to me. Will they be in heaven with me for all eternity? When this fear, instead of faith, pops into my thoughts, I remind myself – But God! He knows what is best for each person. He desires that no one be separated from Him (2 Peter 3:9).
Salvation is His business. That is the truth. The lie is that I have no control over the decision of others. My business is to talk with Him about these concerns. To plead with Jesus for their souls. Live Christlike. Share the words of the Gospel. Trust God – He’s got it perfectly planned.
Psalm 139 continues to remind us that we can never be hidden, nor hide, from God. His hand is everywhere I am. He wants to guide me. He wants to hold me close. No hard experience for me is unknown to Him. He created me. He has my days all worked out. His plans for me are good (Jeremiah 29:11-13).
The writer continues in Psalm 139:17 to praise God. Praise is a valuable tool to fight fear and panic. He is in the midst of trials – anxiety within (verses 19-22). He opens himself fully to God (verses 23). He is in awe of His Maker. He wants his sin removed (verse 24).
King David, the author of this Psalm, worked through His fear by focusing on God. He was vulnerable with Him. He found peace – verse 18 “When I awake, I am still with you.” NIV 1984.
Why not come to the Lord, be vulnerable, be honest? Ask Him to show you what the truth really is in the situation? He can turn your fear to faith, and your panic to praise and prayer (Psalm 34:4; Philippians 4:6-7; Revelation 1:17).
Praying you find the God of peace, love, and mercy,
Donna
Copyright 2020 Donna Shappy
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Recommended reading: Paul Tripp’s devotion dated April 1, 2020