Faith Over Fear

“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1

The human propensity to fear, other than in healthy reverence to God’s character, is used by the enemy to distract us from the full life in Christ we are called to live. Faith is a powerful muscle, but it must be developed in tandem with our relationship with Christ. Through His Holy Spirit living in us, we have the power to thwart fears that attempt to trip, badger, and harass us. Faith shields us from unhealthy fear.

“Fear stands at the doorway of our destinies and dares us to step inside. It bullies us into believing that if we step across the threshold, we will fail, or worse yet, God will fail us.”

Faith creates a barrier through which we can astutely filter fear, align it with God’s truth, and lay it at His feet. Developing faith that conquers fears takes daily discipline, constant prayer, knowledge of who God is, and recognizing who He says we are.

5 Ways to Keep Faith over Fear

1. Define the Proper Source of Confidence for Faith

“Such confidence we have through Christ before God. Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God.” 2 Corinthians 3:4-5

Confident faith is rooted in quiet moments with God, and in the pursuit of our Savior. Fear of God propels our confidence by who He says we are. Fear of man is based on what the world says we should be.

2. Develop the Strength to Endure Fear

“Consider him who endured such opposition for sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Hebrews 12:3

Fear is a common thread of humanity, and our reaction to it exposes the condition of our faith. We must persistently train ourselves to know and live God’s truth.

3. Pray for Perspective

“The LORD sets prisoners free; the LORD opens the eyes of the blind. The LORD lifts up those who are bowed down; the LORD loves the righteous.” Psalm 146:7-8

Our view of God is limited on this earth. As we develop our faith, we begin to see glimpses of life through His eternal perspective.

4. The Right Relationships Produce Bravery and Faith

A transparent relationship with God is a powerful weapon over fear. He hears us and is close to the brokenhearted.

“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

5. Clearly Define Self-Care and Faith

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Self-care includes guarding God’s Truth as our top priority, knowing our focus drives the overall direction of our faith.

Keep Faith over Fear

Faith is listening and trusting beyond what we can see and make sense of. Scripture says God shields the righteous, and to cast our anxieties on Him because He cares for us. Faith over fear is choosing Him every day, and every time something threatens to steal our attention.