FEAR PARALYZES
But they were paralyzed with fear and said, “We’ve seen that two kings couldn’t stand against this man! What can we do?” (2 Kings 10:4 NLT)
Fear is a natural emotion in all human beings. It can be good or bad. The three general reactions to fear are: fight, flight, or freeze.
There is good fear and bad fear. For example, fear of God is good and fear of fire is good because it stops us from burning ourselves.
But, there is also fear that can paralyze us and prevents us from reaching our goals and dreams in this life. Fear of rejection, criticism, disapproval, being misinterpreted, failure, lack, etc.
When we see that fear is stopping us from fulfilling God’s purpose in our lives, then we need to remember some passages like these:
This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9 NLT)
For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7 NLT)
For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:13 NLT)
Think about it:
What difficult situation do you need to confront?
What crucial conversation had you been postponing due to fear?
What dreams had you left halfway due to fear?