As we further explore the nature of fear, (See Nature of Fear part 1) we see that fear, among other nature that it presents, has the nature of being a faith-killer.
Fear is a killer of Faith.
You are supposed to walk and live in faith to please God. Hebrews 11:6 states: “But without faith, it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
If faith is necessary to please God, then, God is pleased as we walk in faith. However, faith and fear cannot co-exist in the same place and at the same time. Therefore, where there is fear, faith cannot exist and where there is faith, fear cannot exist.
We know about the story of Jesus and His disciples on the boat:
“Now when He got into a boat, His disciples followed Him. And suddenly a great tempest arose on the sea so that the boat was covered with the waves. But He was asleep. Then His disciples came to Him and awoke Him, saying, “Lord, save us! We are perishing!” But He said to them, “Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?” Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. So, the men marveled, saying, “Who can this be, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?” (Matthew 8:23-27)
Jesus asked His disciples: why are you so fearful? In my interpretation, “You are with Me, why are you so fearful?”. Jesus goes on to say…O you of little faith.
- It was fear that crippled Jesus’ disciples.
- It was fear that made Jesus’ disciples declare that they were perishing.
- It was fear that created the panicked situation with Jesus’ disciples.
It is important to note the following about fear:
- Fear will rob you of the faith you need to receive from God.
- Fear will rob you of the opportunity to walk right with God.
- Fear will rob you of the confidence to stand in God by yourself.
I will leave you with this verse that speaks to me at all times especially when fear wants to creep into my life:
“…but the people who know their God shall be strong and carry out great exploits.” (Daniel 11:32b)
