One Spring when my boys were little, our family went camping at Table Rock State Park. It was back when “The Fear Factor” was popular on TV. Being the fun-loving mom I am, I gave my boys a Fear Factor Challenge. We all lay giggling in the creek while the freezing water rushed around us. The challenge was to see who could stay there the longest.

For those who know how competitive I am, I am sure you are not surprised that I won. I would say that Taylor and Bradley could beat me nowadays, but I am still pretty competitive. I would certainly not be as eager to challenge them now as I was back then.

There is a popular saying that goes, “There is nothing to fear but fear itself.” But fear is a very real thing. I speak from experience.

One time a Counselor who is also a Baptist Pastor told me that we fear who or what we believe is in charge of what happens to us. Knowing that helps me to breathe a little easier when the stress of life’s trials takes my breath. I can stop and remember that ultimately that God is in control, and nothing can happen to me that He does not allow.

Don’t get me wrong, I am not saying that God is not to be feared. He is all powerful, and we should hold Him in deepest reverence, respect and wonder. Reverent fear of God draws us to be more like Him, and this growth and deeper understanding of His love helps us not to be terrified of His judgement.

The Bible mentions fear more than 300 times. He knows it is something we will encounter, and His Word encourages us that He is big enough to handle whatever we face and that He can comfort our fears.

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

“When I am afraid, I put my trust in You.” Psalm 56:3

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

“Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid.” John 14:27

“For God has not give us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7

“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” 1 John 4:18

“When anxiety was great within me, Your consolation brought joy to my soul.” Psalm 94:19

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4

“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34

God is love, and when we accept His Son Jesus as our Savior that means He lives in us. The same God who lovingly made us is also the One who gave His only Son Jesus as a sacrifice for our sins. 1 John 3:1 says, “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God.”

Life is scary, but God is our Rock that we can stand on when the trials of life rush all around us and threaten to take us under. “Trust in the LORD forever, For in GOD the LORD, we have an everlasting Rock.” Isaiah 26:4

Dear Lord: Whatever we face, You are there for us. We don’t have to be afraid to face troubles and afflictions, because You are in charge of what happens to us. You know the future and that You will work Your good will for our lives if we will only trust You. Please help us to grow in faith and love for You, so that fear is not a factor when we face the trials of this life. Amen

If you are carrying a burden that is too heavy to bear today, I urge you to give it to the One who speaks to the sea, and the wind and the waves die down.

Thank you for reading and sharing my blogpost. Please share your thoughts and comments by replying or private messaging me. Have a blessed day!