How can we overcome fear through faith, as seen in other Scriptures?

◄ Overcoming fear with faith in Scripture? ►

Facing giants: the fear in 1 Samuel 17:11

“When Saul and all Israel heard these words of the Philistine, they were dismayed and greatly afraid.”

• An army in covenant with God lets one loud voice paralyze it.

• Saul, once anointed for courage, now models anxiety to his men.

• Goliath’s threats fill the people’s minds; God’s past victories slip from view.

Why fear flourishes

• Looking at circumstances instead of the Lord (Numbers 13:31–33).

• Forgetting earlier deliverances (Psalm 78:42).

• Listening to human opinion over divine promise (1 Samuel 17:24).

God’s prescription for fearful hearts

• Presence: “Have I not commanded you?… the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

• Promise: “Do not fear, for I am with you… I will uphold you.” (Isaiah 41:10)

• Perspective: “When I am afraid, I put my trust in You.” (Psalm 56:3–4)

• Power: “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7)

• Peace: “Be anxious for nothing… the peace of God… will guard your hearts.” (Philippians 4:6–7)

David’s fearless faith in action

• Rehearses God’s record: “The LORD, who delivered me from the paw of the lion… will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” (1 Samuel 17:37)

• Runs toward the challenge (v. 48), not away.

• Declares God’s superiority: “The battle belongs to the LORD.” (v. 47)

Practical ways to trade fear for faith

1. Remember His nearness

2. Replace fearful thoughts with truth

– Speak Psalm 27:1 out loud.

3. Recall past victories

– Keep a written record of answered prayers; revisit often.

4. Request His help

– Philippians 4:6–7 invites specific, thankful petitions.

5. Refill with Scripture daily

– Short passages like Matthew 14:27 or Mark 4:40 steady the heart.

6. Rest in perfect love

– “Perfect love drives out fear.” (1 John 4:18)

7. Respond in obedience

– Step forward like David; action anchored in promise shrinks anxiety.

Living courageously today

• Identify the “Goliaths” that shout against God’s purpose in your life.

• Confront them with Scripture, not self-confidence.

• Cultivate habits—worship, fellowship, thankful prayer—that keep the Lord bigger than any threat.

• Expect His faithfulness; He has never lost a battle with fear.