Richard Roberts
Once I stayed in a hotel that had an open atrium that went all the way from the ground floor to the top of the hotel. All the floors surrounding the atrium had high railings for protection. I was on one of the top floors, and I could look down upon the open area and enjoy the view. But I knew that if I leaned over too far, I could fall over the edge. I had a “normal” fear—a healthy respect—for what could happen.
But there is another type of fear that’s not healthy. It’s the kind of fear that grips you and torments you. It has a way of making you think the worst case scenario is going to happen. This kind of fear puts you in bondage and is a terrible thing.
God does not put fear on you. Fear comes from the devil. 2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV says, God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. When you read the New Testament, you find Jesus saying repeatedly, “Fear not” or “Be not afraid.” In Luke 12:7 He said, Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows. In verse 32 He said, Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. And on His way to heal Jairus’ daughter He said, Fear not: believe only (Luke 8:50).
You don’t have to put up with fear because faith is produced by the Word of God, and faith drives out fear. The Word of God can bring you deliverance from the spirit of fear.
