Keys to Overcome Fear

Fear can be a huge force in people’s lives. Some people cannot make decisions because they are afraid of the possible outcomes. Others are intimated by people so their fears keep them immobilized. Still more fear sickness, lack of money, failure or success. If you have experienced fear in any of these areas, read on!

There are many articles, books and seminars for the fearful, and they all produce positive results. I believe there is one way to withstand and overcome fears, and that is through the Bible. Too many of us have placed band aids on problems or accepted temporary results rather than look for permanent solutions. So, here are some keys that can have lasting effects.

1.Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and take action!

For example if you go to a doctor and he diagnoses your problem, hands you a prescription which will alleviate your suffering and you go home feeling better but don’t fill the prescription, chances are your healing isn’t permanent and your suffering isn’t over. So when you find a verse that is helpful, use it whenever fear comes.

2.Accept the Word of God as the final word on the subject!

Deuteronomy 3:21-22,“And I commanded Joshua at that time, saying, ‘Your eyes have seen all that the LORD your God has done to these two kings; so will the LORD do to all the kingdoms through which you pass. You must not fear them, for the LORD your God Himself fights for you.’” Instead of rehearsing in your mind the possible problems, rehearse these words and make them personal.

3.Put your trust in God’s abilities not your own!

Psalm 46:1-3, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, Even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though its waters roar and be troubled, Though the mountains shake with its swelling.” There is something to be said for relying on, believing in and submitting to someone outside yourself who can help you handle whatever you’re going through.

4.Remember that God will fight your battles!

Isaiah 41:9-11, “You whom I have taken from the ends of the earth, And called from its farthest regions, And said to you, ‘You are My servant, I have chosen you and have not cast you away: Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’ “Behold, all those who were incensed against you Shall be ashamed and disgraced; They shall be as nothing, And those who strive with you shall perish.” We tend to be screenwriters conjuring scenarios that would scare even Stephen King when all we need to do is remember these verses when faced with adversity.

5.Meditate on the following verses

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. (Psalm 23:4)

For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you. (Isaiah 41:13)

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. (Deuteronomy 31:6)

For God gave us not a spirit of fearfulness; but of power and love and discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7)

The Lord is my light and my salvation--whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life--of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1)

So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can Man do to me?" (Hebrews 13:6)

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:27)

This particular verse tells that we have control over our thoughts. I’ve heard it said that you can’t stop the birds from flying over your head (fear), but you can stop them from building a nest in your hair.

As with any habit, it takes times to break the force fear has had in your life. But, by personal experience, when I studied fear and saw the effects it had in my life, holding fast to the biblical principles altered my thinking patterns and enabled me to walk in victory over fear more times than  not.