Do Not Be Afraid

None of us make it through life without encountering one of the darkest things out there: Fear. Even though we are likely to experience fear, God has given us something more significant than fear: His Spirit. The only fear that will improve your life is the fear of God, admiring and respecting him.

Overcoming fear and intimidation can be a major battle. Everyone must overcome some kind of fear. You are not alone in this. God will deliver you from all your fears and give you the courage you need, as his word declares:

“Do not be afraid of their faces. For I am with you to deliver you,” says the Lord.

—Jeremiah 1:8

Do not fear those who kill the body but are not able to kill the soul. But rather fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.

—Matthew 10:28

The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever puts his trust in the Lord will be safe.

—Proverbs 29:25

The apostle Paul wrote, “For am I now seeking the approval of men or of God? Or am I trying to please men? For if I were still trying to please men, I would not be the servant of Christ” (Gal. 1:10). Your priority is to please God. Inordinate people-pleasing puts you in bondage to everyone whom you desire to please.

Scripture tells us, “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29). Pure-hearted men and women of prayer don’t seek after the praises of men. Jesus said, “I receive not glory from men [I crave no human honor, I look for no mortal fame]” (John 5:41, AMPC). Just as Jesus did not look for or receive honor from men but from the Father, the same must be true for you.