We have all faced situations, sometimes seasons, where we are anxious and afraid. I know I have. If you’re wondering how to deal with fear, the most important thing to know is that fear is not from God. You’ve probably read before that “Do not fear!” Is written in the Bible 365 times, once for each day of the year. Perhaps, it’s our own fleshly weakness, recovering from past trauma, our personality bent, or a demonic attack. But, whatever the reason, in his letters to Timothy, Paul is assuring him that his timidity is not from God. Instead Paul lets Timothy know that we have the inherent strength of the Kingdom of God supporting us, enabling us to love and serve others and giving us a calm mind in contrast to panic and confusion.
Stir Up Your Faith
I don’t know about you, but some mornings I wake up (today was one of those days) and I just feel overwhelmed and anxious by my responsibilities. In the past, I would remain there. But, now I know the freeing truth that the Word of God renews our mind. It informs us so that we’re in formation and aligned with God, it stirs up our faith, and brings peace. And a cocktail of faith and peace fills you with joy. And, the joy of the Lord is our strength. (Nehemiah 8:10)
So when I feel those emotions (we’re human after all) I speak in the opposite Spirit, praying and declaring scripture until the Holy Spirit washes over me and the peace of the Lord settles me. I have a friend who went through a very challenging season when her husband was close to death, and she used to say. “I don’t care how long it takes, but I don’t leave my bedroom in the morning until every bit of fear has left me.” She knew the secret to pressing in to the Lord when she felt like the world would swallow her up. May we all walk in that freedom.
Prayer Declaration
Lord, You have not given me a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind. I come against the spirit of fear that seeks to paralyze me, intimidate me, and keep me from walking boldly in my calling. I declare that fear has no place in my heart or mind. I come against the spirit of confusion that seeks to cloud my mind and derail my decisions. I release clarity and wisdom from above to guide my every step. I declare that I will hear Your voice clearly, and I will not be deceived by the lies of the enemy. The mind of Christ is my portion, and I walk in divine understanding in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen