VIBES: Fear

Mark Estepp - 10/31/2021

Vibes: How to Experience (An Emotionally Healthy) Life With Jesus

Fear 

Frame It

Why do I feel this way?

Proverbs 29:25

Fearing people is a dangerous trap . . . 

Self-Worth = Performance + the Opinion of Others

“The Search for Significance” by Robert S. McGee

Funnel It

Where should I direct it?

Proverbs 1:7

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge;

Fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Proverbs 9:10

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,

And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

Proverbs 10:27

The fear of the Lord prolongs life,

But the years of the wicked will be shortened.

Proverbs 14:26-27

In the fear of the Lord there is strong confidence,

And his children will have refuge.

The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life,

That one may avoid the snares of death.

Proverbs 15:33

The fear of the Lord is the instruction for wisdom,

And before honor comes humility.

Proverbs 19:23

The fear of the Lord leads to life,

So that one may sleep satisfied, untouched by evil.

Filter It

What does the gospel say to it?

Luke 12:1-7

Meanwhile, the crowds grew until thousands were milling about and stepping on each other. Jesus turned first to his disciples and warned them, “Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees—their hypocrisy. 

2 The time is coming when everything that is covered up will be revealed, and all that is secret will be made known to all. 

3 Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be shouted from the housetops for all to hear!

4 “Dear friends, don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot do any more to you after that. 

5 But I’ll tell you whom to fear. Fear God, who has the power to kill you and then throw you into hell. Yes, he’s the one to fear.

6 “What is the price of five sparrows—two copper coins? Yet God does not forget a single one of them. 

7 And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.

Luke 12:27-32

“Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. 28 And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?

29 “And don’t be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don’t worry about such things. 30 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs. 

31 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.

32 “So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.

Haggai 2:5

‘This is what I covenanted with you when you came out of Egypt. And my Spirit remains among you. Do not fear.’