How can we overcome fear to approach God, as seen in 1 Chronicles 21:30? Setting the Scene: David’s Moment of Dread 1 Chronicles 21:30 – “but he could not go before it to seek God, because he was afraid of the sword of the angel of the LORD.” • David had just watched judgment sweep across the land after his sin of numbering Israel. • The sight of the angel’s drawn sword froze him; he knew the wrath was deserved. • Fear made the tabernacle at Gibeon feel unreachable—even for a king after God’s own heart. Why Fear Tightens Its Grip • Sin awakens a guilty conscience (Genesis 3:8–10). • The holiness of God feels dangerous to unholy people (Isaiah 6:5). • Judgment imagery—an angel with a sword—reminds us that God’s justice is not symbolic; it is real. • Satan exploits that fear, whispering, “Stay away; you’re too far gone” (Revelation 12:10). God Makes a Way Right Where We Stand • The LORD redirected David from Gibeon to a new, nearby site—the threshing floor of Ornan. • 1 Chronicles 21:18 – “Then the angel of the LORD commanded Gad to tell David that David should go up and build an altar to the LORD on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite.” • By grace, God provides an altar, a sacrifice, and ultimately an end to wrath (v. 26). • That threshing floor later became the temple mount: a permanent testimony that God longs for reconciled fellowship. Steps to Move from Fear to Fellowship • Admit the real reason for fear—sin or unbelief—without excuses (Psalm 32:5). • Accept God’s appointed sacrifice. For us, that is Christ alone (Hebrews 10:19–22). • Act in obedience even while still trembling, as David purchased the site and built the altar (1 Chronicles 21:24). • Believe His promise of welcome: – Hebrews 4:16 – “Therefore let us approach the throne of grace with confidence…” – James 4:8 – “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” • Replace fearful thoughts by rehearsing His love: – 1 John 4:18 – “There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear…” • Keep worship central. Fire fell on David’s offering, and worship replaced terror (1 Chronicles 21:26–27). Encouraging Promises to Silence Fear • Psalm 34:4 – “I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.” • Romans 8:15 – “For you did not receive a spirit of slavery that returns you to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship…” • Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not be afraid, for I am with you…” Living Fearless in His Presence • Remember: the God who judged also provided the place of mercy. • Every time fear resurfaces, look to the greater altar—the cross—where wrath was satisfied once for all. • Approach with confidence, not because you are worthy, but because the blood of Jesus speaks a better word than any accusing sword. |
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