Fear can be a liar. However, anxiety is real. If you’ve ever done battle with it, you’ll understand what I mean. Nevertheless, fear doesn’t have to have the final say. In fact, there are ways we can combat this scary foe. Scripture gives us some great insights into fear and how we can find peace.
From a physiological standpoint, however, this doesn’t mean that God can’t or won’t use prescription drugs (namely SSRI’s and the like) to help us with this battle–-among other tools in the realm of wellness. So never rule these out.
This is important to clarify because we have both a spirit and a body. (A mind and soul as well.) In fact, under high levels of long term stress, brain chemicals, such as serotonin, can take a hit leading to depression and anxiety. Genetics or other factors may play a part in bodily imbalances as well. What’s going on inside the body matters.
That being said, our spirits can also take a blow. In fact, in a vulnerable state, Satan (also known as the devil and the father of all lies) will be sowing even more seeds of fear and doubt. Therefore, it’s important that we know and hold tight to God’s promises whether our anxieties are due to life stressors, bodily disharmony, spiritual warfare, or even all of the above.….
He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.
–John 8:44
From a spiritual perspective our first line of defense is to fix our eyes on God. For all of life’s battles are ultimately won in His arms.
The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe.
Proverbs 18:10
Go ahead and prepare for the conflict, but victory comes from God.
Proverbs 21:31
And when it comes to fear, only God’s perfect love can drive it away.
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
We have God’s promise that He will not leave us in a place of fear and distress. (Isaiah 41:10; Deuteronomy 31:8; Philippians 4:6-7; Psalm 34:17-18) In fact, Jesus doesn’t want us to be a prisoner to any anxiety. His heart on this matter can be seen in His words to those He left behind. This same promise is true for all who follow Jesus today.
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27
We can take hold of this peace by knowing the character of God (or fixing our eyes on Jesus) by studying Scripture, following Him–that is, giving our lives to Him, abiding in Him, praying and trusting Him to guide our steps and help us in our times of need.
Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’
Isaiah 41:10
Thank you for reading. God Bless. 🩷 If you could please pray for me as I go through my own valley of fear and anxiety I would so appreciate it.
–Tina
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