In this message, we explore the question: Why do we fear? Despite God repeatedly telling His people to “fear not,” fear is a natural emotion that we all experience. Isaiah 41 reminds us that God has chosen us, and because of that, we have nothing to fear.

God Has Chosen You

Isaiah 41:10 states, “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” This verse reassures us that because God has chosen us, we do not need to be afraid. Many people struggle with insecurity, wondering if anyone truly cares about them. But God, the Creator of the universe, has personally chosen each of us.

Understanding Fear

Fear is meant to be a protective mechanism, not a state of living. It alerts us to danger, as seen in Genesis 3:10 when Adam, after sinning, hid from God out of fear. Fear is supposed to drive us toward trusting God, as stated in Psalm 56:3: “What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.” However, many people do not respond to fear by turning to God. Instead, they let fear control them, leading to anxiety, insecurity, and spiritual stagnation.

The Many Forms of Fear

Fear can take on different forms in our lives:

• Greed – Fear of loss or not having enough.

• Rejection – Fear of not being accepted, which prevents people from pursuing opportunities.

• Guilt – Fear of truth being revealed, causing people to hide their mistakes.

• Lack of Confidence – Fear of failure that holds us back from trying.

• Anger – Fear of losing control, leading to frustration and outbursts.

• Jealousy – Fear of losing something we think belongs to us.

• Indecisiveness – Fear of making the wrong choice, leading to hesitation and stagnation.

Each of these fears deceives us, making us believe lies rather than trusting in God’s sovereignty.

Where Does Fear Come From?

Fear originates from multiple sources:

1. Learned Attitudes – From parents, teachers, society, and past experiences.

2. Our Own Imagination – Overthinking and imagining the worst outcomes.

3. Sin – The first instance of fear came from Adam’s sin in the Garden of Eden.

4. Ignorance – Not knowing God’s truth leads to unnecessary fear.

5. Satan’s Deception – As John 8:44 says, the devil is “the father of lies.” Fear is often based on falsehoods rather than facts.

The Consequences of Living in Fear

• Instability – James 1:8 says, “A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways.” Living in fear makes us inconsistent and uncertain.

• Wrong Choices – Fear-driven decisions, like Saul consulting the witch of Endor, lead to consequences.

• Panic and Anxiety – When we panic, we lose control, stepping outside of God’s plan.

• Destruction – Living in fear ultimately leads to a spiritually and emotionally destructive life.

How Do We Overcome Fear?

1. Acknowledge Your Fear

We cannot conquer what we refuse to confront. Many people try to suppress their fears rather than dealing with them. Writing down your fears and praying over them can help you process and release them to God.

2. Recognize the Source of Fear

Isaiah 41:12 says, “Thou shalt seek them, and shalt not find them, even them that contended with thee.” We must identify whether our fear is rooted in past experiences, people’s opinions, or Satan’s lies. Many times, fear is based on false assumptions rather than reality.

3. Change Your Focus

Isaiah 41:13 reminds us, “For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.” God is holding our dominant hand, preventing us from taking control in our own strength. Instead of focusing on the “what ifs” of life, we need to shift our focus to “Who is in control?”—God.

4. Settle in the Word of God

Faith comes from hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17). Many times, we struggle to trust God because we do not immerse ourselves in Scripture. Joshua 1:9 reminds us that God commanded him, “Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”

Conclusion: Why Fear?

God constantly tells His people, “Be not afraid.” Yet, our first reaction to life’s challenges is often fear. If God is speaking to you today, do not be afraid. Trust Him. Take steps of faith. Live with confidence, knowing that He has already chosen you, and He holds your hand.

Let’s not be like a car alarm that blares endlessly with no one responding. Instead, let’s answer the call of faith and move forward in trust, not fear.

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