How Do I Deal with Fear and Anxiety?

The two most prescribed medications today are for anxiety and heartburn. We are obsessed with fear but often fear the wrong things. Someone once said there are 365 “Fear Nots” in the Bible. In fact, fear is mentioned over 450 times depending on the version. That’s one for every day—including leap year!

Paul writes from prison after being shipwrecked and snake-bitten: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love, and sound judgment” (2 Timothy 1:7). The word for fear here—deilia—refers to a fear that paralyzes. It’s not the fear of God. In Scripture, it’s always used in a negative sense, describing fear that immobilizes us and takes our eyes off Jesus.

The Spirit of Fear

Were you afraid of the dark as a child? We grow up, yet that little child in us often clings to fear. In my book Goodbye Fear, I talk about 10 common fears and anxieties—fear of failure, the future, impossibilities, loneliness, insufficiency, and more. Fear shows up in different ways for different people, which is why I left space at the end for readers to name their own.

The Spirit of Power

Paul’s word for “power” points to divine strength—the kind that helped David defeat Goliath and empowered Peter to preach on Pentecost. Romans 8:11 reminds us: the same power that raised Jesus from the dead lives in us!

The Spirit of Love

Love is more than emotion; it’s a choice. “There is no fear in love; instead, perfect love drives out fear…” (1 John 4:18). God is not only powerful and all-knowing—He is love. We love Him because He first loved us. Your view of God will shape your relationship with Him. If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it!

The Spirit of Sound Judgment

The Holy Spirit gives us clarity and self-control. Freaking out isn’t a spiritual gift! Are we walking in fear—or living in the Spirit’s power? Does our love show the world that we belong to Jesus? Do we reflect self-control in our daily lives? When fear rises, we can choose faith instead.

The Spirit of Faith

Paul had just reminded Timothy of his sincere faith before warning him about fear. Our assignment is often greater than our ability, but success means fulfilling God’s purpose by His grace. Faith helps us see our situation from God’s perspective—even when we face real dangers and uncertainties.

Faith is seeing things from God’s point of view, even when fear is loudest.

How to Spot the Spirit of Fear

When fear creeps in, try the acronym SPOT:

  • S – Stand Your Ground (Exodus 14:13-14)
  • P – Pray for Peace (Philippians 4:6-7)
  • O – Oppose the Lies (2 Corinthians 10:5)
  • T – Trust in God (Psalm 56:3-4)

You can’t put your trust in circumstances, finances, relationships, or politics. Fear is contagious—but so is faith. Surround yourself with people of faith, fix your eyes on Jesus, and remember: you were not given a spirit of fear. You were given power, love, and sound judgment.

You were not given a spirit of fear—you were given power, love, and sound judgment. Choose faith over fear.

Feeling overwhelmed by fear or anxiety? You’re not alone. We’d love to pray with you and help you take your next step of faith. Connect with us, or Plan a Visit to join us in person this weekend.

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Lessons from Acts 16: Trusting God Through the Journey
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