Fear Does Not Come from God - iBelieve Truth: A Devotional for Women - October 16, 2024

“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” 2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV) 

Fear is a powerful emotion. It can grip our hearts, cloud our minds, and paralyze us from moving forward. It’s no wonder that the Bible frequently addresses the topic of fear, urging us not to fear but to trust God in all situations. In 2 Timothy 1:7, the Bible declares that the spirit of fear does not come from God. Instead, God has given us a spirit of power, love, and self-control. 

Fear often comes from uncertainty and the perception that we are vulnerable or out of control. It can arise in response to external threats – like difficult circumstances or potential dangers – as well as internal struggles – like feelings of inadequacy or past trauma. When we let fear dominate our thoughts, it distorts our perspective and diminishes our faith. We start to focus more on the “what ifs” rather than on the truth of God’s promises. 

However, this verse reminds us that fear is not our inheritance as children of God. God has not given us a spirit that retreats in the face of challenges. Instead, God has given us a spirit of power. This power is rooted in the presence of the Holy Spirit within us. It’s the same resurrection power that raised Jesus from the dead. God will empower us to overcome every obstacle and to stand strong in faith, no matter what we face. When we feel weak or incapable, it’s vital to remember that we are not relying on our own strength. We can rely on God’s power to help us in every situation. 

In addition to power, God has given us a spirit of love. God’s love is much more than a feeling. It’s a force that flows through our lives, making positive change happen. God’s perfect love drives out fear (1 John 4:18) because it assures us of God’s constant care, protection, and presence. When we’re anchored in God’s love, fear loses its grip on us. We feel secure and confident that our loving Heavenly Father will take good care of us. This love compels us to act in faith – not fear – in every part of our lives. 

Finally, God has given us a spirit of self-control. This fruit of the Holy Spirit’s work in us enables us to remain calm, clear-headed, and focused when fear tries to overwhelm us. Self-control helps us choose what we pay attention to each day, carefully and wisely. It empowers us to choose faith over fear, to act out of confidence in God’s promises rather than out of panic or anxiety. With self-control, we can respond to fear with wisdom and discernment, not impulsiveness or irrationality. 

When we shift our focus from our fears to God, everything changes. Fear no longer has the power to dictate our actions or steal our peace. Instead, we find security in God’s love and strength in God’s power. We remember that God is in control of every situation, and God is with us in every moment. By keeping our eyes fixed on God, we can rise above fear and live with courage. 

So, the next time fear threatens to take hold of your heart, remember who you are as one of God’s children. You are not a slave to fear, but a beloved child of God, equipped with everything you need to live boldly and victoriously. Focus on God – not fear – and let God’s spirit of power, love, and self-control guide you through every challenge. 

Let’s pray:

Dear God, thank you for reminding me that you have not given me a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, love, and self-control. In moments when fear tries to take hold of my heart, help me remember who I am in Christ – one of your beloved children, equipped with everything I need to face life’s challenges with courage and faith. God, please fill me with your Holy Spirit, empowering me with the same power that raised Jesus from the dead. Let your perfect love cast out all fear in my life and give me the self-control to keep my mind and heart focused on you. Help me trust in your sovereignty and remember that you are with me in every moment and that your plans for me are all good. I want to walk in the confidence of your promises, choosing faith over fear and allowing your peace to rule in my heart. I choose to surrender my worries to you and embrace the spirit you have given me – one of power, love, and a sound mind. Help me to live boldly and do everything you want me to do. Thank you, my powerful God. Amen.

Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/Alexandra Gorn

Whitney Hopler helps people discover God's wonder and experience awe. She is the author of several books, including the nonfiction books Wake Up to Wonder and Wonder Through the Year: A Daily Devotional for Every Year, and the young adult novel Dream Factory. Whitney has served as an editor at leading media organizations, including Crosswalk.com, The Salvation Army USA’s national publications, and Dotdash.com (where she produced a popular channel on angels and miracles). She currently leads the communications work at George Mason University’s Center for the Advancement of Well-Being. Connect with Whitney on her website at www.whitneyhopler.com, on Facebook, and on  X/Twitter.

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