Fear inhabits our lives in so many different ways. For me, I've struggled with anxiety and depression for about five years. Living life through these fears has been far from easy. Fear is one of the most crippling aspects life can throw at you. But thankfully, we have a God who has conquered all, and who gives us eternal hope. Let’s dig into some scripture that can help us feel less alone in these trials and help us know that the pain is only temporary.
“I sought the LORD, and He answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to Him are radiant with joy.” - Psalm 34:4
I found this verse the day I had the worst panic attack of my life. I was flipping through the Word because I was desperate. I felt lonely. I felt unloved. I was scared, and I was confused as to why I was going through what I was going through. But then, God led me to this verse. See, we often think because God loves us so much that He’ll automatically give us everything we want, need, and hope for...but that’s just not the case. He gave us free will, and because of that...the fall of man occurred, and sin entered the world. Yes, God loves us and wants us, but we have to pursue HIM. We must acknowledge Him and give Him the glory in our lives every day. We must be in His Word, reading scripture. We must be in constant communication with Him through prayer. When we seek God, things start to go the way HE planned. God loves us and has the best plan in store for our lives, but we have to allow Him to work! When that happens, He gives us strength, patience, and peace....which helps combat fear. God can make you radiant. He can make you overflow with contentment. Seeking Him can lead to joy like you’ve never felt before.
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that’s going to be revealed to us.” - Romans 8:18
This world sucks. Honestly, have you seen the news lately? We’re #strugglin. But, for me, I have hope in super tough times because I know Jesus, and I know He’s alive in my heart. I have accepted Christ and surrendered my life to Him; therefore, I know my eternity is secure in Heaven. With that being said, this world is nothing. I mean, yes, it is rather crappy in the meantime...heartbreak, death, drama, sickness, etc., but our time on earth is SO tremendously short in comparison to the length of eternity. And if you’ve been saved by Jesus’ grace, eternity is going to be awesome beyond words. None of that heartbreak, death, drama, or sickness will be present. Only Jesus and angels and worship...and who knows what else! So, if you’re struggling today, I know, it hurts. But Jesus can heal your brokenness not only today but forever when you accept Him into your life.
“As He got into the boat, His disciples followed Him. Suddenly, a violent storm arose on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves But He was sleeping. So the disciples came and woke Him up, saying, “Lord, save us! We’re going to die!” But He said to them, “Why are you fearful, you of little faith?” Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the sea. And there was a great calm.” -Matthew 8:23-26
This is one of my all-time favorite passages in the Bible. It is a metaphor of my life in almost every season of struggle I endure. Jesus’ disciples were in the middle of a huge storm. They were so worried, scared, anxious, and confused. They honestly thought the storm was going to win and kill them. This can be so true in our lives as well. We go through storms — anxiety, depression, heartbreak, family/friend drama, etc — and we just don’t think we’re going to survive. Or maybe, we don’t even want to survive because we never think it will end...but did the disciples die in that massive storm at sea? Nope, because Jesus had it all planned from the beginning. He knew the storm would pass. He knew they were going to be okay...if He didn’t, why would He be sleeping? He is the SAVIOR...He would be trying to save them if He knew it would be harmful! But instead, He’s just chillin, laying on a cushion (Mark 4:38), taking a nap in the back of the boat. When they wake Him, He responds, “Why are you fearful, you of little faith?” When we start to worry and overthink while in the midst of a “life storm” (which is what everyone does...let’s be honest) we show a lack of faith in Christ. But thankfully, He is a forgiving and loving God who provides grace upon grace (John 1:16). Jesus got up and basically hit an off switch. The storm was gone, and there was a great calm. Jesus can calm any storm. Trust Him. Keep the faith. Rest in the fact that He holds your tomorrow and the storm will not last forever.
Those are three verses that I have turned to in the midst of my struggles. God has spoken to me so much through those verses; however, there are many, many more. Here’s a list of other great verses to combat fear:
“Do not worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 4:6-7
“We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose.” - Romans 8:28
“For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels or rulers, things present nor things to come, hostile powers, height or depth, or any other created thing will have the power to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord!” - Romans 8:38-39
“The LORD is my light and salvation — whom should I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life — of whom should I be afraid?” - Psalm 27:1
“Come to Me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” - Matthew 11:28
"Haven't I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." -Joshua 1-9
"Therefore don't worry about tomorrow, because tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." - Matthew 6:34
“So you have sorrow now. But I will see you again. Your hearts will rejoice, and no one will be able to rob you of your joy.” - John 16:22
During times when you're full of fear, it's easy to run from God because it feels like He's not there. But let me tell you: He is. When you push yourself to seek Him and read His word and pray to Him when you barely have words to say anything, He will begin to reveal how you can GROW and become STRONGER because of what you're going through. He is the God of comfort, the God of love, the God of peace. He is working in you when you feel nothing...when you feel lonely...when you fee scared...and when you feel completely shattered. Don't let the worries and trials of this life keep you from His overwhelming and perfect love. Run to Him. I promise there is light in the darkest of dark places. It is Jesus. Cling to that.
