When we see people who appear confident, have everything together, and don’t seem to be shaken by whatever life throws at them, we might assume that they never feel fear. But the truth is that despite outward appearances, nobody is immune to fear. The first person God created was Adam, and the first recorded words Adam spoke were these: ‘I heard Your voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; and I hid myself’ (Genesis 3:10 NKJV). Fear is part of human nature. When we’re faced with a genuine danger, it can be a useful warning signal that we need to be ready to react. But it can also be a destructive force in our lives. One of the old English words for fear means ‘sudden attack’, and it’s related to an old German word that means ‘ambush or snare’. And that’s what fear does; it attacks us and takes us captive. But God doesn’t want us to be held prisoner by fear; He wants us to be set free by faith in Him. Fear weakens, but faith strengthens. Fear paralyses, but faith empowers. Fear disheartens, but faith encourages. God says to us, ‘Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine’ (Isaiah 43:1 NKJV). Studies have discovered that some of our biggest areas of fear include finances, health, career, relationships, achieving goals, and death. Over the next few days, let’s take a look at each of these areas, and hold on to the fact that God is with us and He promises to strengthen and guide us in every situation we face.

What Now?

Do you have a friend who always seems confident? Have a chat with them and ask if there are any hidden worries or fears that they’d like prayer for.