I recently posted a quote from my book, Identity: The Distinctiveness of You, onto Facebook that went like this: “Fear can be very real because the consequences are very real.” Not all fear is bad, but not all fear in our lives is filled with truth either. Often a “truth” we carry is not the truth.
Fear will enable us to carry thoughts, emotions and reactions to beliefs that feel very real, but are based on lies. For example, if we fear snakes, we will be on the lookout for them as we walk a narrow hiking trail in the mountains. When we come across a brown or black crooked object on the ground, we may think, “SNAKE” and run. But when we take a closer look we discover it’s a stick and our heart returns to our chest. Fear is programed in our minds from a past experience in order to keep us safe from the object we fear.
But the truth is: most snakes are harmless. However, that doesn’t matter when we fear them. We’ll fear all snakes.
The scriptures remind us that perfect love casts out fear. (I John 4:18, 19) So, the opposite of fear is love. Let’s consider some everyday fears versus the reaction of love.
Fear requires us to perform. When love is present, we desire to do well.
Fear will not maintain a healthy relationship, while love will be what holds a healthy relationship together.
Fear will impede your responses. Love will bring you the freedom to respond.
Fear will keep you from taking risks or chances. Love allows the freedom to be a risk-taker.
Fear will hold you back from maturity. Love is an encourager and promotes personal growth.
When in fear, you will hold back. When in love, you will give away more freely.
Fear will cause you to lack confidence. Love grows confidence.
Fear can be full of self, while love is selfless.
Yes, fear is real, but love is far more powerful. Ask God for more of His love so that fear is overwhelmed and has to retreat. “For God has not give us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” (II Timothy 1:7)
Steve Prokopchak 