Dealing with Fear

When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. I praise God for what he has promised. I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? Psalm 56:3-4

Would it surprise you if I told you that Jesus experienced fear?

Fear is an emotion that pushes us away from a person, place, or thing. In Matthew 26:39

we read that Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane,

“My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me.”

As he approached the time of his death, he saw the physical and emotional suffering ahead, and he was afraid. His emotions pleaded for a different way. But he didn’t let his fear cause him to lash out at others or turn away from what he knew was right. Rather, Jesus showed us what we should do with our fear—express it to.

The psalmist reminds us that God has promised his presence and protection. When we trust in God, we know he’s in control, so there is no reason to be afraid. In fact, the Bible records 365 times when God says, “Fear not, for I am with you.” Our fear leads us to God, and we rest in his strength to protect us.

When you feel fear, don’t put yourself down and don’t blame it on your spouse. Instead, run as quickly as you can to the loving arms of God.

Father, I want to trust you with my fears. Forgive me for the times I have lashed out at my spouse or blamed him or her because of my fear. Help me to bring it to you right away. Thank you for being with me.