A Lifeway Research study documented that fear is the most common feeling Americans seek to avoid. While it is universal in its presence, it is powerfully individualized in practice. Fear can cause constant dread, incapacitate us, inhibit our abilities, cause us to be a recluse robbing our purpose, vibrancy, confidence, accomplishments…ultimately the joy of the Lord immediately and in the long-term.
Over 2,000 years ago, the young woman Mary lived in the small town of Nazareth. She wasn’t of royal lineage or of great wealth but was chosen for one of the most significant roles in human history – to be the mother of Jesus. Her story is one of exchanging fear for faith, strength and unwavering trust. Her journey provides valuable insights into our faith journey.
Luke 1:30: “And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.”
- Grammatical Usage: “afraid” or in the Greek, “fear; frightened; alarmed”; “favor” or “charin” meaning, “gracious extension”.
- Literal Interpretation: Do not be frightened…especially not alarmed Mary, for you are the recipient of God’s gracious extension of Himself.
- Contextual/Comparison: God keeps His Word: God continually uses His Word.
A. FEAR OF THE UNEXPECTED
Mary’s life plan was interrupted, eliciting unexpected panic at the lack of control.
B. Mary’s response to fear
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- Trusting God’s plan, even when it doesn’t make sense: trusting in God’s plan can lead to incredible blessing and fulfillment
- Grace under pressure: handle struggles with poise and confidence in God
- Courage to stand firm: facing backlash and misunderstanding, stood firm in her belief with a consecrated heart
- Power of a mother’s love: profound influence in guiding and shaping the lives entrusted to her
- Resilience in uncertainty: endured the burden by leaning on God
- Saying ‘yes’ to God’s will: knowing God’s will is one thing, embracing it is required
- Patience in waiting: waiting on God requires faith and perseverance, waiting on God to work in ways beyond our sight, understanding or comprehension
- Surrendering control: instead of taking charge of Jesus’ life and destiny, Mary surrendered to God’s plan
- Supporting loved ones in their calling: from birth to death, she was Jesus’ unwavering supporter
- Finding joy in God’s promises: joy not defined by circumstances, but God’s faithfulness
- Enduring sorrow with hope: understanding God’s plan was bigger than her pain
- Remained humble in the face of greatness: No matter what our calling or success we experience in life, staying humble keeps us aligned with God’s purpose.
C. A BIBLICAL RESPONSE TO FEAR
As Christians, we are not exempt from the power of fear or its influence on our lives and decision-making. At the time of conversion, we are not adorned in a blazer of courage that repels fear like spiritual scotch guard. Despite the prevalence of fear, Christians should have a different response to fear than the world. This should be reflected both in how we act in fearful situations and in what triggers fear. The Bible does not shy away from discussing fear and our reaction:
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- Proverbs 1:7: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and discipline.” This is the starting point for developing an appropriate relationship with fear. In this context, fear is not about being scared but showing proper respect and reverence.
- Isaiah 41:10: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with my righteous right hand.” God is our constant companion. He promises to give strength and aid when we need it.
- Psalm 23:4: “Even when I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for you are with me; your rod and your staff—they comfort me.” When going through dangerous places, we may have confidence and security that God is present in our most challenging circumstances.
- Psalm 56:3: “When I am afraid, I will trust in you.” David’s enemies were pursuing him in a way most of us will never experience. During this time, he recognized his fear and realized the resolution was trusting God.
- Haggai 2:5: “This is the promise I made to you when you came out of Egypt, and my Spirit is present among you; don’t be afraid.” Christians find the confidence in the Spirit’s presence, enabling us to follow God’s directives.
- John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Don’t let your heart be troubled or fearful.” We should not live in fear, knowing the Lord is in control.
- 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love, and sound judgment.” God does not desire for His people to be in a constant state of concern and dread about the present or the future.
- 1 Peter 5:7: “…casting all your cares on him, because he cares about you.” God pleads with us to relinquish our inferior methods of coping and instead heed His Word; while life is not exempt from problems, stress, or fears – it is not just manageable but victorious in Him.
- Hebrews 13:6: “Therefore, we may boldly say, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” Christians feel emboldened when confronting difficult circumstances. This confidence is not born of human fortitude but is fully confirmed through understanding the presence of the Lord in the midst of all challenges.
- 1 John 4:18: “There is no fear in love; instead, perfect love drives out fear, because fear involves punishment. So the one who fears is not complete in love.” This verse should impact the Christian’s perspective on fear in general, knowing even if the worst-case scenario occurs, i.e. death, they can stand before God without fear of punishment.
D. SURRENDER TO GOD’S WILL
V.38: Mary’s confident confession leads to a faithful determination.
- Conclusion: Will I surrender my ‘fear’ to the Lord…and exchange it for a determined faith?
