How can we overcome fear when called to serve God in challenging situations? Setting the Scene: Obadiah’s Moment of Panic 1 Kings 18:9: “But Obadiah asked, ‘What sin have I committed, that you are handing your servant over to Ahab to put me to death?’” • Obadiah—a devoted believer serving in Ahab’s hostile palace—meets Elijah after years of drought. • Elijah asks him to announce his arrival to the murderous king, and Obadiah’s first reflex is fear of execution. • The narrative records an honest human reaction in the midst of genuine danger. Why Obadiah Felt Afraid • Personal risk: Ahab had searched every nation for Elijah (1 Kings 18:10). • Apparent unpredictability: Elijah had a history of disappearing by the Spirit of the LORD (18:12). • Isolation: Obadiah sensed he would face Ahab alone. • Limited perspective: He temporarily forgot God’s sovereignty, even though he had previously hidden and fed 100 prophets (18:4). Reality was frightening, but God’s presence was greater. God’s Proven Track Record • Elijah’s bold confidence: “As surely as the LORD of Hosts lives, before whom I stand…” (18:15). God’s living reality anchors courage. • Immediate fire from heaven later that day (18:38) demonstrated God’s supremacy to the entire nation. • Throughout Scripture, the LORD consistently rescues servants who obey despite fear (Daniel 3; Acts 12). Four Steps to Move from Fear to Faith 1. Remember God’s character. – Psalm 27:1: “The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” – Isaiah 41:10: “Do not fear, for I am with you.” 2. Rely on God’s promises. – 2 Timothy 1:7: “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” – Joshua 1:9: “Be strong and courageous… the LORD your God is with you.” 3. Respond in obedient action. – Obadiah finally went to meet Ahab (1 Kings 18:16). – Faith becomes visible when we step forward, trusting God with outcomes. 4. Rehearse past victories. – Obadiah had already sheltered prophets—evidence of God’s prior faithfulness. – Personal testimonies reinforce present courage. Promised Help: Verses to Hold On To • Philippians 4:6-7—peace guarding hearts and minds. • Romans 8:31—“If God is for us, who can be against us?” • Exodus 33:14—His presence brings rest. • 1 John 4:18—perfect love drives out fear. Serving Boldly Today • Challenging callings still arise—sharing Christ in hostile environments, standing for truth at work, entering missions fields. • The same living God who empowered Elijah and steadied Obadiah dwells with believers now. • By fixing eyes on His character, embracing His promises, acting in obedience, and recalling His faithfulness, fear yields to steadfast confidence, and the work He assigns is accomplished for His glory. |
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