Thursday, August 4, 2011

To Fear and Not to Fear!



Fear is a strong emotion. There are two kinds of fear, the fear on God, and the fear conceives from a memory and expectation of pain because of self-doubt, and uncertainty to the object of our faith.

NOT TO FEAR - The fear conceives from a memory and expectation of pain because of self-doubt and uncertainty to the object of our faith.
It's an emotional state of anxiety concerning the outcome of something, of our own safety or well-being of someone. It is a strong, uncontrollable, unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, possible to cause pain, or a threat. Fearful of not knowing -expectation of another painful experience because we don't know what to do.

This is the kind of fear that we should not have in our life although most people say that it is essential for survival. First of all it does not come from God. It is not an inborn reaction, nor it's necessary for survival. "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." 2 Timothy 1:7 "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you... Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful" John 14:27
Our brain recorded all the memories of pain that we experienced or learned by observing others through the media or personal social interactions. An expectation of pain arises under any motivation that resembles the original pain. If uncontrolled, it will cause panic or completely paralyzed us.
Recognition of potential danger, Yes! But not fear. Be not afraid but rather educate our self. We should learn to calm our mind so we can think well. vigilance and carefulness is needed. The instinctive reaction of seeking a connection to something secure is necessary but should not be mistaken for fear. "Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. Joshua 1:9
Faith is the best defense and offense to fear. Believe in yourself and fully trust God. The Object of our faith is Tried and True; Strong and Faithful; He never fails and He is the same yesterday, today and forever. "Look unto Jesus the Author and the Finisher of our Faith." (Hebrews 12:2)

We need knowledge and wisdom to face every situations…and True Wisdom comes from God. "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding." Proverbs 9:10

TO FEAR - The fear on God

A feeling of profound respect with reverence and awe towards a Supreme Being or Deity. "Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him" Psalm 33:8

Fear that causes us to depart from evil and dislike sin completely( Proverbs 16:6). The fear that makes us trembled at the holiness of God, this is the kind of fear that all humanity needs.
People who have no fear on God are not afraid to sin. This moral condition is recorded in Romans 3:10-18 "there is no fear on God before their eyes." They do not reverence Him because they do not love Him. Where God is not regarded, human rights are disregarded.

Yes, God is a God of love but is He is also our Great Judge. "For we know him that hath said, vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." Hebrew 10:30-31

However, The fear of the Lord opens our understanding and gives us both knowledge and wisdom (Proverbs 1:7; 9:10). It help us properly prioritizes our values and produces good behavior.
Everyone who fears the Lord and walks in His ways will be blessed and happy, and will enjoy a stable home life. (Psalm 128). They who fear the Lord lack nothing (Psalm 34:9).

"Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter. Fear God, and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man" Ecclesiastes 12:13.

By MhelP.