“Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the Lord means safety.” – Proverbs 29:25 New Living Translation
Whether Christian or not, there are times when we are afraid of someone who has crossed our path. It could happen anywhere and when it happens your heart beats just a little faster and your brow becomes furrowed. It’s a natural human response, but it shouldn’t be, at least for the believer in Christ. We’re not alone; read some examples from scripture of those who were afraid of people.
1 Samuel 15:24 New Living Translation (NLT) - “Then Saul admitted to Samuel, ‘Yes, I have sinned. I have disobeyed your instructions and the Lord’s command, for I was afraid of the people and did what they demanded.’” Saul created a situation that was far worse than if he had simply trusted God. He wasn’t using the eyes of faith, but rather human eyes. Our natural sight cannot see into the Spirit world, so he was at a major disadvantage from the start.
Isaiah 51:12 New Living Translation (NLT) - “I, yes I, am the one who comforts you. So why are you afraid of mere humans, who wither like the grass and disappear?” The Lord speaks to the kingdom of Judah thru his prophet Isaiah questioning why they doubted their God by fearing mortal man. He points out that mortal men are here today and gone tomorrow and absolutely no one to fear.
John 12:42-43 New Living Translation (NLT) – “Many people did believe in him, however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn’t admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue. For they loved human praise more than the praise of God.” Some Jewish leaders believed that Christ was the Messiah, but their fear of being ostracized by the Pharisees kept them silent. Serving the Creator should be far more important to us than fearing any other created being.
As true believers in Jesus Christ we need to understand that no one can usurp the power and/or authority of Almighty God. Scripture is clear that he is our fortress of safety in any and all circumstances. In Proverbs 18:10 (NLT) Solomon tells us, “The name of the Lord is a strong fortress; the godly run to him and are safe.” Proverbs 28:26 (NLT) compares the foolish and the wise, “Those who trust their own insight are foolish, but anyone who walks in wisdom is safe.” The way I look at things is this: if Almighty God knows all that can be known, is all places at the same time by his Spirit and is the most powerful Spirit being that exists what could possibly happen to those he loves. Only what he allows for purposes of our spiritual growth. Isaiah 41:10 tells us,“Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” Remember, wherever we are he is and he will never leave you alone. What excellent news! Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!
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