Today, many children will be focused on candy and treats. Others will be scared to death of costumes and other decorations. But what scares you?
Over the years, many things have caused me to fear rather than stand on my faith:
- Infertility
- Raising children
- Job loss
- The future
- Speaking in public
- Cancer
- Serving in new ways
- Navigating change in women’s ministry!
- On and on … (What fears would you list?)
Jesus told His disciples in Matthew 8:26 when they were afraid of dying in the boat on a stormy sea, “‘Why are you fearful, you of little faith?’ Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the sea. And there was a great calm..”
Leaders: God says the same to us. Faith and fear do not go hand in hand. No matter the issue, Jesus can bring calm into the storm for us personally. I’ve experienced it often. Once was in the midst of an 8-year period of not seeing one of our daughters, not even knowing for sure if she was alive, Christ gave calmness even in the pain. He can do that for you as well.
Here are a couple of lists of Scriptures that help us deal with fear: Topical verses on fear and Scriptures on fear and anxiety. Keep these handy and claim them the next time you feel fear creeping in. The enemy loves to keep us from doing what God has asked us to do by making us fearful. Do not let him win! Jesus, through His Word and the Holy Spirit, can give us courage and calmness in all situations. Model this for the women your serve and lead.
Chris Adams is senior lead women’s ministry specialist at Lifeway Christian Resources in Nashville, Tenn. Learn more about Chris here.
