3 Ways to Overcome Fear

SCRIPTURE PROMPT

3 Ways to Overcome Fear

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

Obey God’s command to be strong and courageous

A command is from one in authority who expects obedience. The Person, God Almighty who is the Commander in control of the Universe, knows that trusting in Him will make all the difference in going forward. He is omniscient, omnipresent, and omnipotent.

During a significantly challenging time, Dr. Charles Stanley faced opposition. When asked how he felt before the decision, he said,

“If I win, I win. If I lose, I win. Trust God and leave all the consequences to Him.” (Dr. Charles Stanley)

God knows the beginning and the end. God closes doors and opens doors.

Trust God to calm your fears

Fear is part of being human and is a feeling that can alert you to danger. Fear can also be an obstacle that hijacks your mind leading to irrational, unproductive behavior. When God said, “Do not be afraid,” Joshua was encouraged to know that God was leading. God was with Him. He would not be alone to face the challenges ahead.

Do not be discouraged

Intentionally focus on God’s Word. Others may present arguments why they would not risk proceeding into new circumstances and challenges. Knowing that “God‘s got this” determines your capacity for courage to proceed.

To overcome fear, be strong by obeying God, unafraid by trusting God, and courageous by focusing intentionally on God and not on the circumstances. When you think on these things that are God’s commands, your priorities shift to realize that invisible God is more real than visible problems.