pilgrim in progress

Fear, worry, anxiety is universal. We find it in our own experience but God reserves his most beautiful words for those who are worrying and fearing.

How do we identify the depth and breadth of fear and worry? Welch suggested moving chronologically through your life from childhood through your teen years to the present.

I.    God speaks to our fears, worries, and anxieties a lot

Scripture speaks to our fears. The most frequent command in scripture is “Do not fear.” The question is how does God say that? Is it an authoritative command that is essentially “Stop it!” Or is it a pastoral encouragement from a holy God who knows his children and our dangerous circumstances.

We get a hint in Luke 12.

Jesus says, “Don’t be afraid little flock.” God reserves his most beautiful, penetrating, sweet words for those who are struggling with fear.

Is fear sinful? Welch answers by saying you will surely find sinful aspects in fear BUT the more fundamental issue is where will you turn when you fear? Will we turn to him? “When I am afraid I will trust in you” (Ps 56:3)

Fear is a relational matter. When we are afraid we want the presence of another. We will even settle for a dog’s presence at times. So often we try to deal with our fear, worry, and anxiety apart from relationship.

God is a relational God who says to us “I am with you.”

II.    Ask ‘Who is this One who says “Do not be afraid” and “I am with you.” Who is our God?
Welch mentioned three aspects about God:

1. He is one who is pleased to repeat himself. When he repeats himself he does so because it is important. It is not divine nagging. Each time he says it adds a certain oomph to it. This speaks to God’s patient endurance.
2. He is one who is honored when we aspire to peace and grow in it. He is glorified when we desire more of Him, more of His peace.
3. He is one who is pleased to construct a world that is built on trust and relationship. Our fears are dealt with in this context.

III. How do I respond to these things?

1. Desire more of God’s peace for His glory. You will see that God is faithful to his promises.
2. Pray for more intimate knowledge of this God who is our rock and our peace.

IV. Questions for Reflections
Where is the fear, worry, and anxiety in my life?
Who is your God?
How will you respond?