Displacing Fearful Thoughts With Truth

Displacing Fearful Thoughts with Truth

Come, let us tell of the LORD’s greatness; let us exalt his name together. I prayed to the LORD, and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears. Psalm 34:3-4

Living free from fear is easier when things are going smoothly. But if you’re suddenly diagnosed with a serious illness, a wave of fear may flood your mind. The uncertainty and what-ifs can be overwhelming as thoughts flood in: I’ll never be able to work again and support myself with the limitations I’ll face. I may become so weak that I don’t know how I’ll cope. How did this illness slip by God’s watchful care?

The fear of illness or the reality of a serious diagnosis can be anxiety-producing for anyone. How can you respond in a way that neutralizes those fears and keeps you in the ongoing process of wholeness? The first step is to replace the lies and fearful thoughts with biblical truth. Rehearse these truths to yourself: God will supply all you need (see Philippians 4:19). Regardless of your health problems, you are strong in him (see Joel 3:10). He has given you all you need for living a godly life (see 2 Peter 1:3). He is your Great Physician, the God who is well able to care for your physical needs (see Exodus 15). You belong to him, and he will fill you with his dynamic power so you can cope with any situation (see Philippians 4:13).

When you believe and proclaim God’s indestructible promises, you are enabled to trust him in the most vulnerable places and difficulties. You’ll find that as you replace your fears with what the Lord says in Scripture, dread and anxiety will gradually dissipate. It’s like a seesaw: The more faith grows, the more fear subsides. —CHERI

Thank you, dear Jesus, for bearing our griefs, weaknesses, and distresses. We trust you as the Great Physician that we can bring all the things we suffer and endure to you. Thank you for calming our fearful hearts with your words of life.

Whatever illness you’re facing right now, your own or that of a loved one, keep in mind that God, not your doctor, has the last word. Through God we have unlimited resources to continue to live abundantly and generously all our remaining days, be they many or few. —BRUCE LARSON, AUTHOR, SPEAKER, AND FORMER PASTOR