Unholy fear, often characterized by anxiety, dread, and a lack of faith, stands in contrast to the reverent fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10). Unholy fear can paralyze believers, leading them away from the peace and assurance that comes from trusting in God. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that illustrate how trust in God serves as a preservative against such fear.

Biblical Foundation

The Scriptures consistently encourage believers to place their trust in God as a means of overcoming fear. In Isaiah 41:10 , God reassures His people, "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My right hand of righteousness." This promise highlights God's presence and support as a remedy for fear.

Similarly, in Psalm 56:3-4 , the psalmist declares, "When I am afraid, I put my trust in You. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" Here, trust in God is directly linked to the dismissal of fear, emphasizing that reliance on God's word and character provides security.

Jesus' Teachings

Jesus Christ, during His earthly ministry, frequently addressed the issue of fear and the importance of trust in God. In Matthew 6:25-34 , Jesus instructs His followers not to worry about their lives, what they will eat or drink, or about their bodies and what they will wear. He points to the birds of the air and the lilies of the field as examples of God's provision, urging believers to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, with the assurance that all these things will be added to them.

In another instance, Jesus calms the storm in Mark 4:39-40 , rebuking the wind and the sea, and then addressing His disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" This account underscores the connection between faith in Christ and the dispelling of fear.

Apostolic Encouragement

The apostles also provide guidance on overcoming unholy fear through trust in God. The Apostle Paul, in Philippians 4:6-7 , exhorts believers, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." This passage highlights prayer and thanksgiving as means to cultivate trust and receive divine peace.

The Apostle Peter echoes this sentiment in 1 Peter 5:7 , urging believers to "Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you." This act of casting anxiety onto God is an expression of trust, acknowledging His care and sovereignty.

Old Testament Examples

The Old Testament provides numerous examples of individuals who overcame fear through trust in God. One notable example is David, who, despite facing numerous threats and adversities, consistently expressed his trust in the Lord. In Psalm 27:1 , David proclaims, "The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—whom shall I dread?"

Another example is found in the account of Daniel, who, despite the threat of the lions' den, continued to trust in God. Daniel's unwavering faith resulted in divine protection, as described in Daniel 6:23 , "When Daniel was lifted out of the den, no wound was found on him, because he had trusted in his God."

Practical Application

Believers today are encouraged to cultivate trust in God as a means of overcoming unholy fear. This involves regular engagement with Scripture, prayer, and a conscious decision to rely on God's promises and character. By doing so, Christians can experience the peace and assurance that come from a deep and abiding trust in the Lord, effectively preserving them from the paralyzing effects of unholy fear.Psalm 27:1
The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 John ii. 20, 21
... Such should have no occasion to fear the threatened ... and guards them from all the
unholy influences inherent ... the way of salvation, we must trust their testimony ...
//christianbookshelf.org/neander/the first epistle of john/1 john ii 20 21.htm

Justification by an Imputed Righteousness;
... for to do things, but not in God's fear, to what will ... 3. But again, God judgeth such,
for those that condemn him ... Will you trust to the blood that was shed upon ...
/.../justification by an imputed righteousness.htm

The Saints' Privilege and Profit;
... it will be such a preservative also to spiritual health, as that by its virtue ... light,
if thy heart be well poised and balanced with the fear of God: we have ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the saints privilege and profit.htm

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