Overcoming Fear Through Faith

Back in the late 70's and early 80's, I had the opportunity to attend a lot of Seminars regarding subjects on self-esteem. I have sit in audiences with Norman Vincent Peale, Paul Harvey, Dr. Joyce Brothers, Zig Zigler and others who spoke a great deal on self-worth. I think even today there are a lot even in the church who feel subjects along this line are not necessary. One of the topics I remember most is the subject of fear. Even today, some in the church will not take a leadership role simply because of fear. I was probably not ready to accept a leadership role in my own mind many years ago. However, because of my faith, I accepted the role and for the past 50 years I have not regretted that move.

An inscription above the fireplace of an old English inn says, "Fear knocked at the door. Faith answered; no one was there."
The older we grow, the more we come to grips with this thing called fear--fear of failing health, fear of the future, fear of the unknown, perhaps even fear of age itself. I will reach that 80 year mark next month and needless to say, it does weigh on a person's mind.
We need to remember this thought that fear is nothing to be ashamed of. On the other hand, uncontrolled fear is a poison that can paralyze and immobilize.
One antidote to fear is courage. Courage is not the absence of fear. It is the ability to go ahead in spite of fear. What is the source of of courage like this? Its source is faith in God--faith in that power which created the universe and endowed it with with such virtures as kindness and love.
Another antidote to fear is a healthy confidence in ourselves, a confidence which says, "With God's help, I can overcome my difficulties or find the patience and strength to endure them."
When fear knocks, let faith answer. With God's help we can overcome our fears.

For a year and a half, I taught these type lessons to a divorce recovery group at church which included some from our community who were not members. I can assure you that there were many who responded and even today are living a happy productive life because they gained confidence in themselves.