FEAR

Definition:

Fear is defined as a feeling of agitation and anxiety caused by the presence or imminence of danger. Further, it is a state or condition marked by this feeling: living in fear. Also, a feeling of disquiet or apprehension: a fear of looking foolish. In a more positive sense, it is an extreme reverence or awe, as toward a supreme power (God).

Brief Explanation:

Fear is similar to anxiety, experienced by most as psychological pain or dread.  It is often expressed in symptoms such as a panic response (shortness of breath, fear that one is having a heart attack, etc.) or a phobia (focused fear, like that of heights, flying, etc.) to such an extent that it is debilitating to the client.  As noted, there are many different expressions of fear, from a  sense  of  dread to debilitating phobias or panic responses.  The root  of  fear  is  generally  a  wrong  interpretation  of thoughts that bombard the mind of the person. Taking authority over ones thoughts is the goal, conforming the thoughts to God’s word the key; but again, as with many areas of difficulty, this is easier said than done.

For those with minor fears, simply talking about the problems one is facing can help, as can prayer for God’s intervention. Often confronting the negative beliefs that are inevitably a part of the fear can help.

Where the problem is more insidious, cognitive psychology can be an effective tool in helping someone with overwhelming anxiety, and professional help may be required. God is certainly able to help someone with overwhelming fears, and his word, meditated   upon   consistently   can  make  a  major  and  dramatic difference for many.

The Word of God:

Psalm 34:4

“I sought the Lord, and He answered me, and delivered me from all my fears.”

John 14:27

“Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.  Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.”

Isaiah 41:10

“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”

Philippians 4:6, 7

“Be  anxious  for  nothing,  but  in  everything  by  prayer  and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”

Hebrews 13:5, 6

“Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being  content  with  what  you  have; for He Himself has said, “I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you,” so that we confidently say, “The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid, what will man do to me?”