Casting Out Fear

Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. NIV

Matthew 8:26 He replied, "You of little faith, why are you so afraid?" Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. NIV

2 Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. KJV

Over and over, Scripture tells us not to be fearful. We are to put our trust in our Heavenly Father who loves us, goes before us, and is with us in all circumstances. We are to trust the One who can calm our winds and waves -- our fears and worries. He is truly in control and we need only to trust in Him completely.

Yet even when we know these truths, we are human. Our fears can easily paralyze us. Yes, there are the healthy, cautionary fears that keep us out of imminent danger. But then there are the fears that hold us back -- fear of trying new things, what others will think, fear of failing, not being in control, stepping out of our comfort zone, and what I like to call the "what if" fears.  Being afraid can keep us from walking on the path that God has prepared for us. These fears can also stop us from growing into our full potential in Christ.  

When we feel fear washing over us, God wants us to turn to Him. Pray to Him. Trust in Him. Believe Him. Scripture specifically tells us our Creator has not given us a spirit of fear. Embrace and accept His gift of a spirit of power, love and a sound mind.  Let Him cast out your fears.

Dear Heavenly Father, I try to trust You completely, but in my humanness, fear creeps in. And when that fear creeps in, I feel far from You. LORD, I pray that You gently remind me of Your promises and Your Presence. Remind me to put my Trust in You and to not be afraid, for You are with me in all my circumstances.  Amen.