Can God Really Replace Fear?

I’m in the middle of a sermon series on fear. I’ve been thinking a lot about fear in the past few weeks. There are many bible passages that speak to fear and they all (with rare exception) call the follower of Jesus to “fear not”. And yet our churches seem to be filled with people who are fearful, even to the point of displaying that fear on Facebook regarding the upcoming election. Though I don’t want to tip my hand on my upcoming sermon on the election, we have nothing to fear in a presidential election!!! Look at how Psalm 46 begins: God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear, Even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; 3 Though its waters roar and be troubled, Though the mountains shake with its swelling.

Here the writer of the psalm says that even in the greatest natural disaster, we need not fear. This is quite a challenge is it not? 2 Timothy 1:7 says that God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind. Followers of Jesus do not have to fear and when we do, we do not properly reflect the greatness of the God we claim to serve. Do not be afraid. Rather, take the situations, circumstances and people that tempt you to fear and give them over to God in prayer. He can handle it better than you can and then trust God to work out the situation for His glory.