Day 1 – What Is Fear?

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

– 2 Timothy‬ ‭1‬:‭7

Have you ever battled with fear? Are you afraid of the future, stepping into your God-given calling, or constantly living on edge, fearing something bad might happen? Let’s be honest, fear is something we’ve all faced at one point or another.

The Oxford Dictionary defines fear as “an unpleasant emotion caused by the threat of danger, pain, or harm.” It can stem from trauma, bad experiences, or sudden changes in circumstances.

I know what it’s like to battle fear. Before starting my university degree in English Literature, I was consumed with worry about my future. My fear came from past failure, poor results in my GCSEs and A-levels, dropping out of my first university course in Business Studies, and becoming entangled in unhealthy relationships. I remember waking up most mornings with a deep sense of dread, my heart sinking, and feeling empty inside. Is this something you can relate to?

Do Not Allow Fear To Limit You

Fear is debilitating. It can stop you from living the life God has planned because it starts to control your thoughts, which affects your actions. The Bible identifies fear as a spirit (2 Timothy 1:7) that does not come from God. Scripture also warns that fear brings torment (1 John 4:18), which can paralyse and discourage you.

We see how fear plays out in the story of Elijah in 1 Kings. After defeating the prophets of Baal, Elijah was threatened by Jezebel, who vowed to kill him. Despite being a prophet and a man of prayer, Elijah fled in fear. In his despair, he even prayed for God to take his life.

How often do we allow fear to discourage us to the point of abandoning our God-given calling? Like Elijah, you might feel overwhelmed, but God is faithful. He met Elijah in his place of fear, sustained him, and enabled him to fulfil his purpose. Elijah went on to leave a legacy and was even taken up to heaven. The same God who delivered Elijah will deliver you. Psalm 34 reminds us that when we seek God, He hears us and delivers us from all of our fears.

Becoming Fearless

Join me over the next 8 days as we uncover practical steps on how you can overcome fear and live fearlessly. God desires for you to prosper and fulfil your purpose. He is faithful to guide you along the way.