Overcoming FearSample

Let’s Talk About Trust

So now that we know what NOT to do (Do not fear!), what WILL we do? 

What are we called to do as children of God? You see, we are not only called OUT of the ways that our old (unredeemed) man or woman would have done things (and how the world around us does things), but we are called UP to a new level of living in our identity as sons and daughters of the Most High God. Because of who we are and WHOSE we are, we live on a higher level than those around us.

In fact, because we are in Christ, we were raised to life with him and are actually seated with him in the heavenly realms (Ephesians 2:6). So think of yourself as far above your current circumstances. Think with an eternal perspective, and be in peace, for he has already defeated sin, sickness, and death. Not only are we in Christ, but he is in us. And with Christ in us, we have his mind (1 Corinthians 2:16), and that is what we are going to use to respond to our circumstances.

I want to emphasize that we actively CHOOSE our responses, every moment, every day. Sometimes, our emotions haven’t quite caught up to our beliefs, so we have to choose to believe, even when it’s hard to do so. Remember that! Be ever vigilant: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8).

So how do we trust God in a practical, everyday kind of way? What do we do when fearful thoughts come against us? 

I fight these thoughts on a daily basis with God’s help. I can’t do it on my own – trust me, I’ve tried! Most importantly, go to your Heavenly Father first. Philippians 4:6–7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” When we feel the fear, stress, or anxiety rise up in us, we are to come to God in prayer. He is faithful to answer us, and when he does, his peace – the kind that doesn’t make sense to the world – is released to us. And this peace will guard your hearts and minds. Isn’t that an amazing promise? That’s exactly how it works! Tomorrow, we will explore some practical strategies that will help you to reap the benefits of God’s generous promise to us.

Prayer for today: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your very great and precious promises to me. Thank you that you desire that I live in your perfect peace and that you have provided ways for me to do so. Help me to live in that place in you. In Jesus’ name, amen!