Fear and anxiety are negative byproducts of modern life, trying to influence us away from God. Our jobs are often stressful, our relationships and finances, and even our children struggle with social pressures we hardly faced when we were their age. Some people turn to natural remedies, like the newly popular cannabidiol products, while others are absorbed in social media, but there is even better news that can give us peace in this troubled world. The Bible remains an unfailing source of hope and comfort in the seasons when we are discouraged and perplexed. Psalm 46:1-3 declares that even in the darkest times, we can stand strong in the light of God’s authority because we are trusting that His promises are true. “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.”
There are times when all of us, at one time or another, feel sad and discouraged. It’s alright to occasionally examine our situation, but we should not pitch our tent and decide to live there. It’s the irritating things that can distract us and start pulling us toward doubt and worry. Changing our mind can change our attitude, but it does not just happen all by itself; it takes having a strong desire to transform our mind, which involves choosing the type of life we want to live. We know that spiritual faith is being positive-minded, which gives us joy and strength, and we can also establish that optimism is the key ingredient for happiness. It helps us live more fully and engage more generously with life. It helps us notice joy, to see what is possible, and take the next steps with hope and confidence. In my office, my desk is covered with encouraging quotes that remind me to stay positive and focused on God – He is the way, the life, and the truth.
For many, their wealth and health are their security, and they cannot fathom the thought of losing them. However, may we remember that God is our ultimate security and our healer. Though His followers live in this world, we are also citizens of heaven. What an encouragement to know this temporary life is not all there is – our future is forever! “He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler. You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the arrow that flies by day, nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday.” When we are overwhelmed with fear and feel as if the walls are closing in on us, we can know that God is with us and will always take care of us. Remember that faith nor fear force themselves upon us; they are invited guests. We are given the choice to select one of two foundations we will stand on; thus, yielding ourselves to God’s care must be a deliberate decision. We cannot always control what is happening in our surroundings, but we can control how we react to them.
When we truly believe that He is watching us even more closely than the tiny Sparrow, we will stop doubting His desire and ability to deliver and sustain us. God loves us and wants everyone to understand and believe that He is who He says He is. In John 14:27, Christ promises, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world gives, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” He is saying the world cannot give us the spiritual security that He offers because it’s only based on materialism. When Christ sits on the throne of our heart, we are no longer frantically trying to figure out our own solutions, but we can trust in His power and wisdom to bless and protect us. Optimism doesn’t change the world; it changes how we see the world. Since fear is a learned behavior, can we not train our minds to accept faith instead? When our will is to do His will, we will enjoy His peace that passes all understanding. “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1.
Dr. Holland is an ordained minister, chaplain, author, and teacher. Read more about the Christian life at billyhollandministries.com
