Hebrews 2:15, KJV: “deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.”
How much of our lives have been shaped by fear? The fear of death, disease, tragedy, rejection and failure are powerful forces that can dominate our thoughts and steal our dreams. Other fears such as public speaking, possible sickness, high places, flying, sleeping in the dark or not having enough money can continually mold our lives. Many of us probably don’t even realize how much we have allowed fear to shape us and limit us.
Fear was the initial reaction of Adam and Eve to the guilt they felt after sinning. Fear is the dominant force of the fallen, human spirit. Fear is the product the world sells most effectively. The news succeeds by exploiting fear. The entertainment industry magnifies human fear in many of its movies and shows. Many of our decisions in life most likely take into consideration fears that have been sown into us even if we are Christians. The torment of fear is a terrible dictator!
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. (1 John 4:18)
When we take the time to contemplate the power of fear, we can begin to understand why we often miss out on God’s best for our lives. Is it possible to live free from fear? Can we really experience abundant life, joy and peace in a fallen world? I believe that answer is yes. His love has been shed abroad in our hearts and the potential to live free from fear is within. He has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind.
Getting a true revelation of God’s love is the only thing that can loosen the grip of fear in our lives. It is worth meditating on His love day and night until our minds and hearts are renewed and transformed to our true identity in Christ. His love will set you free. The more you know His love, the more you will recognize all of the fears that have bound you, and you will be able to be free once and for all.
I sought the Lord, and He heard me, And delivered me from all my fears. (Ps. 34:4)
Barry Bennett is an instructor- Charis Bible College Colorado. He is a graduate of Christ for the Nations Institute in Dallas, Texas, and has been serving the Lord since 1972. He and his wife, Betty Kay, have served on the mission field in Mexico, Guatemala, and in Chile, where they spent almost 12 years before returning to Texas in 2001.
