Fear is an emotion we all deal with from time to time. Learning to manage anxiety and not letting fear take over your thought life can be challenging. There are many ways to cope, but what does the Bible say about fear?

 God understands that we wrestle with fear because “Fear not” is written in the bible 365 times! That’s a reminder for every day of the year! Yes we will have trials and tribulations in this life, but we don’t have to be fearful about them. In Isaiah 41:10 God tells us, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” What an awesome thought!

It’s not God’s will for your life to live in fear. We learn in 2 Timothy 1:7, ”For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” When you start to feel anxious, remember that your fear isn’t from God and He can help you overcome it.

So how do we battle fear? Philippians 4:6-7 tells us, ”Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” And 1 Peter 5:7 says, ”Casting all your cares upon Him, for He cares for you.” Knowing that we have a God that hears our prayers and cares for us is very comforting.

You can also battle fearful thoughts by being aware of how you’re thinking. Romans 12:2 tells us, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” So what thoughts are we to renew our mind with? In Philippians 4:8-9, Paul says, ”Finally brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there Is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy-meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.”

But the best way I have found to overcome fear is to simply put my trust in God. He loves us, knows the situation we’re in, and will guide us through it if we let Him. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” If we’re fearing, we’re not trusting; and if we’re trusting, we’re not fearing!

And finally, we have a wonderful reminder from Jesus Himself in John 14:27, ”Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” Hear those words in your heart. Jesus meant what He said and He spoke those words to you as well!

When you find yourself facing fear, spend some time in the Bible. Search for verses about fear and how our God can help you overcome it. Trusting in Jesus will give you a peace like no other!

Do you have a favorite Bible verse to help you with fear and anxiety? Share with us in the comments!                                 God bless!