Fear

Fear

I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn’t like the peace the world gives. So don’t be troubled or afraid.

John 14:27

Jesus’ instructions not to be fearful, anxious, or in a panic are often a challenge for me. When difficulties happen in my life or the lives of my family, I sometimes react fearfully, losing perspective about my resources in Christ.

The Bible teaches us that there’s a big difference between the peace the world gives and the peace Christ gives. The world bases its peace on its resources, while God’s peace depends on relationships. The world depends on personal ability, but the Christian depends on spiritual adequacy in Christ. In the world, peace is something a person hopes for or works for; but to the Christian, peace is God’s wonderful gift, received by faith. Unsaved people enjoy peace when there is an absence of trouble, but Christians can enjoy peace in spite of trials because of the presence of the Holy Spirit.

Warren Wiersbe writes, “People in the world walk by sight and depend on the externals, but Christians walk by faith and depend on the eternals. The Spirit of God teaches us the Word and guides us (not drags us!) into the truth.”^a In the midst of fearful times, I need to return to that truth to give me proper perspective and to calm my heart. Through the Bible, God’s Spirit shares his peace, love, and joy, and that is what calms my fearful heart.

God’s Spirit and God’s Word offer great help and hope to any Christian mom dealing with fear!

Father,

Please forgive us for acting fearfully. May we be thankful for your Spirit, who is our Counselor, and your Word, which is our guide. And may we look to you instead of focusing on obstacles or difficulties. Amen.