Fear  

Fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge"
(Proverbs 1:7a).

Of course the type of  fear referred to in this verse isn't the anxious, trembling kind. It's a proper respect and reverence for God, knowing that He loves us. However, the Bible also speaks to the other kind of of fear that makes us afraid. In fact, it tells us to not to fear 365 times - one for each day of the year.

Behold God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid (Isaiah 12:2).

There are many causes for fear, but failure to depend on God can be a major factor. Faith is not just the medicine we need to help cure our fear; it prevents us from becoming infected in the first place. Focus on God, and all your worries and problems that cause fear shrink. Help others, and you'll not only realize there's others with worse problems than yours, but you'll also get your eyes off yourself and your troubles.

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind (1 Timothy 1:7).

Reading God's Word helps grow our faith. Praying and surrendering to His Lordship works wonders too. Tell God about your fears and ask Him to help you with any unbelief. Wiersbe says, "The Holy Spirit is God's psychologist, so turn yourself over to Him" (kindle location 1167). The Holy Spirit reveals who God is and makes Him real to us, as He calms our fears.

(Parts taken from The Bumps Are What You Climb On by Warren Wiersbe.)

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