Free from Fear
Posted on October 10, 2017 by Karah
Think of a current situation in your life that scares or intimidates you. Pray, asking God to comfort you and give you confidence in whatever you face.
“Don’t fear those who kill the body but are not able to kill the soul; rather, fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Aren’t two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them falls to the ground without your Father’s consent. But even the hairs of your head have all been counted. So don’t be afraid therefore; you are worth more than many sparrows.”
Carefully read Matthew 10:26-31. Answer these questions:
-In your Bible, highlight each phrase that commands you not to fear or be afraid. What are the reasons Jesus tells believers not to fear? Explain in your own words.
-Whom does today’s Scripture say you should fear? Why? Explain.
Fearing God is not about dreading Him, but honoring Him. When you fear God, you recognize His authority and show Him the reverence He deserves.
-What does it look like to live out a healthy fear of God? Explain.
Judgment will come one day, but believers do not need to be afraid. We can trust God to be true to His word to reward believers and punish His enemies.
Prayerfully consider your life. Do your actions, words, and heart attitude reflect one who is grateful and secure in their eternity with a Holy God? Why or why not?
Jot down the name of someone you know who doesn’t know Jesus. In your journal, record some ideas on how you can share His love with that person.
For further study on believers and judgment read 1 John 4:17-18.
Behind the Story
Jesus’s sermon in verses 16-25 offered words of wisdom to the believers of His day, but apply to believers of every generation. He knew of His impending death and resurrection, and the opposition His believers would face. Therefore, in this sermon (vv. 26-31) He strongly emphasized fearing God, not man.
fear (n.) =respectful, reverent, awe.
Believers don’t need to fear judgment because our loving Father will be our Judge.