I have a new friend and fellow believer who is dealing with guilt from the past and fear about the future.

Because of the forgiveness that comes from the work of Christ on the cross, he no longer deals with his guilt. What he hasn’t yet learned–but will quickly–is that he no longer has to be afraid.

Do you ever get trapped by fear? Does fear seem to overwhelm you? Do you ever wake up in the middle of the night with anxiety? Do you have a sense of dread?

All of these experiences are common to human beings–even believers. That is why the Bible has so much to say about fear.

What can you do about your fear?

First, you can heed the words of Scripture. The Bible is filled with wonderful words about fear, anxiety, and the need to live with a peaceful heart. One of my favorite passages of Scripture is from the prophet Isaiah: “Thou dost keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee, because he trusts in thee” (Isaiah 26:3).

Second, cast all your fear and anxiety upon the Lord. He tells us to do exactly that: “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). Take what you fear to God. Ask Him to remove your fear and give you peace.

Third, fill your mind with God and the things of God. The more you emphasize God and His promises, the less time you have to be anxious. It’s simply the law of time. You will have time only for certain things. Refuse to have time for anxiety and fear; plan to have time for God and His promises. Remember, being anxious will not add an inch to your height nor a day to your life. While you can worry yourself to death, you can’t worry yourself to life.

Fourth, pray about everything. Paul told us to not to be “anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God.” Paul tells us that when we take our cares to God that the peace of God will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7). I would suggest filling your mind (see number three above) with Philippians 4:4-9. Martha and I have read this so often that we both quote it verbatim without really thinking. We find great strength from reading the Word of God and this passage in particular.

Finally, emphasize who you are. You are the child of God. God does not want you to fear. He wants you to find comfort in Him. He is the Father who holds you and reassures you. In the work of Christ you received His Spirit and “you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship” (Romans 8:15).

You do not have to be afraid.

You can find additional help here and here.

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