Fight or flight. Our built-in defense mechanism that forces us to face or run from danger. I’ve done both. I’ve stood up to a mysterious early morning visitor who questioned my raising of the Christian flag at the college I attended. But I’ve also walked away from a bully who falsely accused me of soiling his car and wanted to fight me because of it. In both actions, fear was present.
Abundant life for believers should be the norm, but it’s impossible when controlled by fear. Controlling fear gives us strength to live our days to the fullest. The bolts of your gates will be iron and bronze, and your strength will equal your days (Deuteronomy 33:25).
Fearing because of threats and living with a continuous spirit of fear are radically different. God gives us the good sense to prepare for and escape dangerous situations, but he doesn’t expect us to live with a recurrent sense of terror. Securing our homes against thieves is sensible; boarding up the windows and never going outside is extreme.
Paul reminded young Timothy; For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind (II Timothy 1:7 NKJV). God empowers us to accomplish our daily responsibilities with confidence that he’s our ultimate protection. While foolish decisions can place us in danger, living wisely keeps us in God’s good graces.
Unfounded fears cannot exist where a complete understanding of God’s love is present. We have no reason to worry when assured of his help in every situation that might cause alarm. What disabling fear do you need to give to God so you can live a full life?
Prayer: Thank You Master in Heaven that You’re strong enough to calm all our anxieties.
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