Fear

Fear is something I have dealt with a lot, both in my life and in my martial arts training. I came across some quotes in the last couple of days that I'd like to share.

"We will always live less than a responsible life if we fear anything other than God."
Neil Anderson

"A hard heart is impenitent, and impenitence also makes the heart harder and harder. If you would be rid of a hard heart, that great enemy to the growth of the grace of fear, be much with Christ upon the cross in thy meditations, for that is an excellent remedy against the hardness of heart; a right sight of Him, as He hanged there for thy sins, will dissolve thy heart into tears, and make it soft and tender. 'They shall look upon Me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn.' Now, a soft, a tender, and broken heart is a fit place for the grace of fear to thrive in."
John Bunyan

II Chronicles 20:12b - For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You. 20:15b - Do not be afraid or discourage because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's.

Proverbs 29:25 - Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.

Deut 31:6 - Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.


We should fear God. He is the Almighty Creator and Judge of the Universe. God-fearing is a good thing. The term Bunyan used, 'the grace of fear', intrigues me! If we are His children, we should also trust Him, so that we do not have to be afraid of man or circumstances here on this earth. All men and all circumstances are under His control, what have I to fear?