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The Other Side of Fear
The Other Side of Fear
The most oft-repeated command in the Bible is some version of “Do not be afraid.” “Do not fear, Abram, I am a shield to you; your reward shall be very great.” (Gen. 15:1). “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9). “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God.” (Isaiah 41:10a). “But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. And do not fear their intimidation and do not be troubled.” (1 Peter 3:14).
Why so many commands not to fear? It’s because God places the greatest blessings in life on the other side of fear. On the other side of Abram’s fear was a son of promise. On the other side of Joshua’s fear was the Promised Land. On the other side of Israel’s fear was restoration. On the other side of Christians’ fear in persecution was eternal peace in Heaven. Since the greatest blessings are on the other side of fear, most people let fear keep them from those blessings. What do you fear? What blessings are you missing in life because you’re afraid? How would your life be different if you trusted that God was with you and faced your worst fears? The other side of fear is a beautiful place! What are you waiting for?
