God’s answer to worry

The Bible says, “God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” Overcoming fear begins with understanding that fear is a “spirit” and it doesn’t come from God. Each time you realize that, you’re less likely to give in to it. So what has God given us in place of fear? Three things: (1) Power. Now we’re not simply talking about self-help techniques and stress management. This is deeper than anxiety reduction to make your life more pleasant. It’s a settled conviction that goes down to the core of your being, that all things that concern you are in the hands of a loving God who has only the best in mind for you. Therefore all things will be well, and you can live free of worry. (2) Love. The Bible says, “Perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18 NKJV). Only when you realize that you are loved unconditionally by a God who never changes His mind about you will you learn to love and accept yourself and then be able to love and accept others. Can you imagine the effect that would have on your fear of people, fear of rejection, and fear of criticism? This kind of love is more than a “feel-good” emotion; it’s a life-changing force. (3) A sound mind. Paul wrote, “We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5 MSG). These three things are God’s answer to worry.