Resources/Articles
Reducing Your Fear
Fear not: ye are of more value than many sparrows.
Luke 12.7
Where is the safest place you can go? Is it your house, basement, tunnel, vault, cave, or family? Is it better just to expose yourself to the elements of the world? Le the world fire away at you with all they have. You cannot hide. There is no safe place. Let come what may. If you survive, great.
Jesus often told His followers, “Do not be afraid.” In all the instances He said these words, was He promising no harm, persecution, conflict, or death? NO. He was asking for faith. He was looking for those who would follow Him without hesitation, anxiety, or hindrance. He was calling people who would not look back and believe they had made a bad decision in following Him.
In Luke 9.57-62, there are three examples of “want-to-be” followers of Jesus. The word “fear” is not used in describing their situations, but the thought may be implied. If the first one wanted to follow Jesus, would he be afraid of what to eat or where to sleep? If the second one followed Jesus, who would bury their loved one who had died? If the third one followed Jesus, who would take care of the family and make sure they had what they needed? For all three, v. 62 answers their concerns: “No man, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” Jesus said, “Fear not: ye are of more value than many sparrows” (Luke 12.7), and those birds are not afraid in the least. They fly around, sing, and eat all day without an ounce of fear.
What God provides reduces and eliminates fear. Why then should a parent be afraid to spank a child? Why should the church be afraid to withdraw from a disorderly member? Why would a Christian not teach a lost soul? Why would a teenager who loves God not want to associate with people who are immoral and ungodly? Why should a Christian not be willing to tell the truth?
Fear is a universal feeling. Everyone has concerns about loved ones, our needs, and the unknown future. What best describes you? Fear or faith? Why not live in the faith of Hebrews 13.5-6: “He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ So we may boldly say: ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear.’” Follow the Lord without fear and allow Him to reward your labor in righteousness (1 Corinthians 15.58).
