Introduction
Fear has so dominated the mind of modern man that it is nearly impossible for him to believe anything absolutely or to have complete confidence in any person. Fear has presented itself in many colors, but the most destructive is that which comes from uncertainty. Because of this it is almost impossible for some people to make definite, lasting decisions for God. It is the purpose of this study to free those people from their fears.
A. Fear hath torment
1. Prov. 12:25, R.S.V. "Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down."
2. James 1:6. The man who does not trust is "driven with the wind and tossed."
3. 1 John 4:18. "Fear hath torment."
B. Fear is not God's plan
1. Testimony of Paul.
a. I Cor. 7:32, R.S.V. "I want you to be free from anxieties."
b. Phil. 4:6, R.S.V. "Have no anxiety about anything."
2. Counsel of Jesus.
a. Matt. 6:25, R.S.V. "Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious."
b. Mark 13:11, R.S.V. "When they... deliver you up, do not be anxious."
c. Luke 10:41, R.S.V. "Martha, Martha, you are anxious ... about many things."
C. Fear can be overcome
1. We must first realize our own weakness,
a. Matt. 14:30. Peter exclaimed "Lord, save me" when he realized his helplessness.
b. Rom. 7:24. Paul cried, "Who shall deliver me from the body of this death?" as he realized his own weakness.
c. Isa. 6:5. Isaiah realized that he was "a man of unclean lips."
2. We must realize the extent of the strength Christ offers us.
a. Matt. 28:18. "All power is given unto me."
b. Jude 24. "Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling."
3. We must look to Jesus for the help He offers,
a. Matt. 14:28-32. Peter began to sink when he took his eyes off Jesus, but was saved when he called on Him.
b. 1 John 3:1. "Behold, what manner of love the Father has for each one of us."
c. John 1:29. "Behold the Lamb of God." The One who will take away all our fears and our sins.
4. We must believe His promises.
a. Matt. 11:28. "Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
b. Acts 3:19. "If we will repent, He will forgive us our sins."
c. Rev. 22:17. "Let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely."
D. Appeal
1 John 4:18. "Perfect love casteth out fear."
1 Peter 5:7. "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you."
Paul Moore writes from Trinidad, Texas.
