Fear is Real

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Greetings in the Name of Our Lord,

We often fear the things outside of our experience – the unknown. In most cases, fear keeps us from dangerous situations. It is a good thing. The avoidance of driving on ice when the roads have not been cleared is a healthy fear.  

Some of the most common fears are fear of heights, bugs, snakes, spiders, water, closed spaces, flying, dark places, and speaking in public. I can relate to some of these. For example, I keep a flashlight close by at night, rarely walk in tall grass, or avoid walking under low hanging branches that might have a spider web. 

The deeper emotional fears are the ones that steal our joy. Fear of failure invites us to procrastinate and miss the best of life. Fear of social interaction can limit our relationships. Fear of death can create debilitating anxiety and depression. Fear of change can cause us to miss new opportunities. 

Fear is real. In some situations, fear is useful. In other situations, fear undermines the life God intends for us. I believe that this is why fear is mentioned over 400 times in the Bible. The phrase “fear not”, in one form or another, is used over 100 times. Fear can separate us from each other and from a full relationship with God. 

Here are some scriptures to lean on in times of fear and anxiety. 

Perfect love casts out fear. (I John 4:18)

But the angels said to them, “Do not be afraid; so see – I am bringing you good news of great joy for all people…” (Luke 2:10)

Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear. But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” (Matthew 14:25-27)

This Sunday, we continue our study of Genesis by looking at Joseph’s story. We will look specifically at Genesis 50:15-21. Joseph’s life was hard. He was sold into slavery by his brothers, lived in slavery for years, and was falsely accused of a crime and thrown in jail. Yet, through the providence of God, Jacob rose above the circumstances of his life to be a great leader in the Egyptian government. Joseph never let hardship or fear stand in the way of moving forward. 

My deepest faith in God has been born out of the most difficult times in my life, when I realized that God was my refuge and strength. I feel for those who surrender their faith in God because of the wilderness of life. We need God when the days are long and hard. Fortunately, there are many who find God’s strength and help in the pit of life. Joseph, son of Jacob, who walks out of the pages of the Old Testament is one such character who finds God in difficult and dark circumstances.

Paul refers to this faith in his letter to the church in Rome. We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28)

See you Sunday! God is Good!

Pastor John Allen

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