SCRIPTURE:
“Do not rebel against the LORD, and don’t be afraid of the people of the land. They are only helpless prey to us! They have no protection, but the LORD is with us! Don’t be afraid of them!” Num 14:9 (NLT)
MESSAGE:
In Part 2, we looked at how a spirit of entitlement can keep us from doing what is necessary to enjoy God’s promises in our lives. This week, we consider one of the most powerful demonic spirits of all – Fear.
Fear has the ability to steal our peace, finances, relationships and more. When we operate from a fear-filled spirit, our lives feel out of control and tumultuous. When we are fearful, we are less likely to make sound financial decisions and may hide our money in the proverbial mattress when we should invest it where it can yield a profit. Fear can even destroy our relationships by introducing us to its crazy cousin Jealousy and its sinister sister Distrust.
Joshua and Caleb tried to encourage the people to trust God. They warned them that allowing fear to steer them away from God’s plan was, in fact, rebellion against the Lord. The godly leaders attempted to shift the people’s perspective and help them see that God was on their side and ready to fight on their behalf, but the people were so infested by fear, that they would have none of it.
Although fear can manifest in many ways, one of its most prevalent forms is vain imaginations. A vain imagination is not based on facts or evidence, rather it is often the result of personal insecurities that are allowed to cloud or hide the truth of God’s word. Fear manufactures a false image in our minds that has no ability to stand up in the scrutiny of God’s light. Like a Hollywood movie set, it appears authentic from the perspective of the camera, but a quick glimpse through God’s lens reveals the empty shell of a fictional facade.
So what is the best tactic to fight fear? We need to recognize, that God’s Word is truth. While we may not be able to see the big picture, God has no similar limitations. He is the one who declares the end from the beginning. (Is 46:10) He has already been where we are going and knows how to navigate the stormy sea. While fiction may be fun to read, it’s not often great to live. Trade your fictional fears for the wonderful adventure of God’s great truth!
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, we are eternally grateful that Your perfect love drives away all fear (1 Jn 4:18). You love us far too much to allow us to be destroyed by the enemy or his minions. Holy Spirit, please saturate my readers today with your perfect shalom. Allow them to feel your love, and give them the truth that sets them free. In Jesus Name, Amen!