For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love, and sound judgment.  2 Timothy 1:7

“It’ll never get better!” “I can’t do this!” “Disaster is about to happen!” Statements like those come from a spirit of fear. We’re all afraid at times: tornado sirens, a child’s high fever, public speaking. But a spirit of fear is a bully that dictates every decision and shoves wisdom out of the way. A spirit of fear is that controlling voice we hear every time a new challenge presents itself: “You’re not enough! Forget it! You’ll fail again!” When we forfeit opportunities, abandon God’s clear leading, or allow negativity to define us because of fear, that’s a sign that we’re bowing to the spirit of fear instead of the Spirit of God.

This verse reminds us that such fear does not come from God. Sometimes we pretend it does. We say things like: “I’m just being cautious,” or “I heard about a person who did that and they exploded!” Instead of a spirit of fear, God gives us a spirit of courage, love, and right thinking. Courage doesn’t totally banish fear. Courage is being afraid and doing it anyway. Love does what is in the best interest of another person, even if they don’t like it. And sound judgment refuses to let fear make decisions for us. Sound judgment tunes out fear’s voice and takes instructions only from God. We are all controlled by some kind of spirit: judgment, arrogance, deception, addiction, lust, fear… God offers a better option: His Spirit (Ephesians 5:18).

Final Thought:  Do you have a spirit of fear? Memorize this verse and state it boldly when fear demands that you listen to it.

Prayer: Lord, there are so many things to be fearful about. But fear does not come from you, and I don’t want anything in my life that does not come from you. Help me overcome my fear with power, love, and sound judgment. In Jesus’ name, Amen.