Friends, it is time for war. It is time for war on fear.
Fear has raised its ugly head all over the world, through mass media paranoia. Sadly, it is far-reaching around the globe and also right here at home.
Let’s get something straight right off the top. Fear is not an emotion. Fear is a spirit. “For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12)
There is an unseen world but just because we can’t see it, doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. It reminds me of a little child who plays hide and seek and covers their eyes thinking they are hidden. They think because they can’t see themselves, they are invisible. In the same way, just because we don’t see something doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist.
I know fear when it comes. Some of the signs of fear are: shortness of breath, worry, sweating, rapid heartbeat, dry mouth, vomiting, shaking or an unsettled stomach. What about the atmosphere around you? Does it feel like a dark cloud is moving in, or confusion and panic sets in making you inoperative against those feelings? Are you aware of the change in the atmosphere that happens when fear walks in the room? The enemy only needs to whisper one suggestion to plant that seed of fear: the fear of lack, rejection, the unknown, failing health, falling, the dark, crowded rooms, lack of protection, the list is endless. Each time we give that fear any thought, it begins to build a stronghold in our mind. Soon, it torments us.
Religious tradition says that fear is an emotion. It says ‘get over it, manage it, deal with it.’ But the good news is that “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7) This has become one of our main verses that our family uses to fight the war against fear. The Word of God also assures us of that we are fully loved by our Abba Father (another word for Father God). His love is unconditional; that means there are no conditions that we have to meet to receive His unending love. He has provided a safe place in Him. Anytime you may be feeling any type of fear coming at you, be assured of this love... He has offered us the Spirit of adoption. "For ye have not received the spirit of slavery again to fear. But you have received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry, "Abba, Father" (Romans 8:15).
Faith comes from truth. If you don’t find out the truth, you won’t have faith. Meditate on His Word to build up your faith muscles to take on this enemy of fear. Psalm 91 holds the key of staying out of fear. It is a great prayer to pray aloud and a great scripture to hide in our heart. Listening to worship songs will help to change the atmosphere. Find a friend to pray; speaking life and truth into your circumstances. Meditate on Jesus... sitting on His knee, giving Him your fears in exchange for His love and peace. Allow His peace and promises to permeate your heart.
“Whatever card the enemy plays, God will have the trump card to take the hand. Don’t bow to fear; crush it instead. Courage is your friend. Jesus is your King.” (Johnny Enlow)
Let’s not bow to fear, let’s win this war!
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
