Lessons in Fear

“Dad! Dad!” I called from the upstairs hallway. I could hear my father watching one of my favorite television shows but it was late and I was supposed to be in bed.

“What is it?” He asked.

“I’m scared up here. I keep hearing noises. I’m afraid to stay in my room.” I whined.

“What you should be afraid of is disobeying me and taking one step down those stairs.” He responded with a tone that said he was serious.

His warning quickly put my fears into perspective.

Children have to learn what to fear. They’re afraid of things that don’t exist and don’t fear actual dangers like running into the street.

Believers can be like that, too. We fear the opinions of others that won’t matter tomorrow while ignoring the real danger of keeping the good news of Jesus to ourselves.

Jesus issued a warning similar to my father’s: “I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him.” Luke 12: 4-5 NIV

Like my father’s words, Jesus’ warning is a loving reminder to fear disobeying our Father God more than we fear what other can do to us.

Are you afraid of the right things or are you running into traffic to avoid the monsters under your bed?

Ask God to school you in your fears. It could free you.