“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:8

I don’t know about you, but when I read this verse my shoulders sit back, my chest pops out, and I feel like I can take on the world! It’s certainly a confidence booster.

There are days when living in the confident faith that God is in control is difficult to do. Instead of “trust in the Lord, and lean not on your own understanding,” our life is better marked by “trust in your ability, and lean on the government’s understanding.”

There are days when living in the confident faith that God is in control is difficult to do. Click To Tweet

Let’s call it like it is. Much of our lives are lived in fear.

• Fear of what tomorrow holds.
• Fear of what the economy will do.
• Fear of what people might say if we stand for truth.
• Fear of the world we’re raising our children in.
• Fear of losing our job, losing our health, or losing a loved one.
• Fear of what happens if a certain law is passed (or not passed).
• Fear of what others think of us.
• Fear that we aren’t good enough.
• Fear that we won’ have enough for retirement.

Fear is like a fast growing ivy that spreads over every of life.  It climbs up, extends out, and has no boundaries. Fear chokes. Fear restrains. Fear hinders.

Fear is not from God.

When your trust is in the Lord, you have power, love and discipline. You walk confidently knowing that no matter what happens, God is in control.

You make decisions based on God’s will. You seek His approval far and above man’s approval. You’re not foolish or arrogant, but you humbly walk in a way that says, “I have divine protection.”

You wisely prepare for the future, while trusting that it ultimately rest in God’s hands. You’re not afraid to stand for truth in love. You’re disciplined. You’re loving. You’re faithful.

Will you walk by fear today, or will you walk by faith?

If you need another word of encouragement, let God’s promise to Isaiah take root in your soul today.  “Fear not, for I am with you.” – Isaiah 41:10