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We are living in uncertain times in our world. Uncertainty will naturally cause us to experience anxiety and fear. As Christians we know that God’s Word tells us to fear not.
You may have even heard that the words “fear not” are in Scripture as many as 365 times. While I do not find those words 365 times in Scripture, I do find God’s Word addresses our fears again and again.
So whether or not the Bible actually has 365 verses with the words “fear not” or not I would like to share with you what God’s Word does have to say about our anxieties and fears.
“Fear” is spoken of over 500 times in the KJV. Furthermore, in addition to the “Fear nots” many times the Bible teaches us to “Fear God,” which really means reverence God alone and do not fear anyone or anything else.
What we think of as fear of the Lord is the first type of fear we will address. This type of fear is good and should be encouraged. On the other hand, there is also a “spirit of fear”, this type of fear should be avoided.
A “spirit of fear” will hinder your walk with the Lord. We find this in 2 Timothy 1:7, which says, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”
As mentioned previously fear of the Lord is a fear of awe, reverence or respect. This type of fear will result in blessings and will greatly benefit us in life unlike the spirit of fear that we may experience throughout our lives. This is the type of fear that we must look to God for help to overcome.
We can overcome fear by looking to God and receiving his Love. Scripture tells us that “perfect love casts out fear.” 1 John 4:18
If you have or have had trouble believing this it is most likely due to the devil and his schemes. Satan does not want us to embrace the love of God, instead he wants us to remain alone in our fears. He will use this to cause us to doubt God.
Many times we allow our worldly fears to get in the way of our relationship with God. The good news is that we do not have to remain in our fears. God’s Word tells us to call out to God in our times of fear. Psalm 34:4 says, “I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.” (ESV)
This means we must first take our fears to God in prayer. This can often be difficult to do at first, but over time once you do so you will be willing to continue as you experience God calming your anxieties and fears.
The following are a few more verses that you can reference when you are experiencing anxiety or fear:
“So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.” Hebrews 13:6 (KJV)
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
Jay
Sunday 17th of March 2024
Great Article, but we should not be afraid to openly say, no, this phrase is not in the Bible 365 times. Christians can make themselves look foolish in the eye of unbelievers when they make claims like this and then the unbeliever can look it up and find its just not true. Some Christians repeat the 365 claim because they have heard it and no one ever told them that it is wrong. It sounds good, but is not necessary.
Kia
Thursday 10th of June 2021
My story is slightly off topic, but it might help someone in a similar rut: After an unduly anxiety-ridden year, I think I understand perfectly how much damage bitterness and vengeance, and yes fear does to your soul and even your body. Its an infinitely better solution to do as the New Testament teaches; refuse to host hatred, forgive unceasingly and pray for your enemies rather than stew in bitterness. You just have to be willing to substitute bitterness with positivity and I'm so, so in awe with how easy it is!💚
dudu Manhenga
Thursday 21st of October 2021
Thank you Kia ..this is really helpful. I am writing a devotional on fear because i struggled too. God bless you!!
DHANASAMPATH NALLALA
Friday 17th of April 2020
Really good.