Hope to Be Fearlessනියැදිය

As we previously learned in Genesis 3:3-10, fear can lead to sin, which can lead to dishonesty, deceit, addiction, pain, and shame. In other words, fear steals hope. It distorts our view of God, others, and even ourselves.

So, why do we let fear have so much power over us? Because fear speaks the language of control. We fear what we can’t control. Fear tells us that if we worry enough, plan more, or stay guarded, we can avoid pain, rejection, or failure. It tempts us to believe that being in control is the same as being safe.

That’s why many turn to drugs and alcohol: to feel in control — or at least to numb the fear of being out of it. When life feels uncertain or overwhelming, substances can offer a temporary escape, a false sense of calm or confidence. But a high is fleeting. It will fade, and when it does, shame will take root. To escape that shame, addicts use again and again, doing whatever they can to keep the high that makes it all seemingly go away. What began as a way to cope quickly became a chain binding them even more tightly to the very fear they were trying to escape.

But the way forward through any circumstance isn't by escaping it, but by faithfully going through it.

There’s a widely known saying that pertains to facing fear: “With great risk comes great reward.” People often focus on the risk, worrying about all the things that can go wrong. But the phrase is framed positively for a reason. Those who live fearlessly are the ones who trust in God’s purpose, focusing on His goodness rather than the negative outcome fear suggests.

God’s Word reminds us again and again that trust, not fear, leads to peace and safety. The more we fix our eyes on what people think, on circumstances we can’t control, or on worst-case scenarios, the more we become entangled in anxiety and confusion. Fear traps us, paralyzing us from stepping into the purpose God has for us.

Consider Peter in Matthew 14. When Jesus calls him to come out onto the water, Peter faithfully steps out of the boat and walks to Him. Peter keeps his eyes on Jesus and ignores the storm raging around him. But the moment his eyes shift to the wind and waves, he begins to sink. The moment he falters and lets fear overcome his faith, he is led astray.

To overcome fear, you have to remain steadfast in your faith. To avoid sin, you have to push past your doubts and trust in the Lord’s plan for your life.

Take a moment today to reflect on your fears. What about your future makes you anxious? Is it the possibility of failure, rejection, or falling short of your dreams? What doubt lies at the core of that fear?

Remember: God is not surprised by your fears, and He is calling you to move forward anyway. Reinforce your faith in God by keeping your eyes on His goodness, and turn away from the path fear tries to lead you down.

God, I pray that you will be patient with me. I pray that you will keep calling me forward, even when I hesitate. Give me the courage to take the leap, trusting that You are already there, waiting to catch me. Amen.