MEMORY VERSE: “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love” 1John 4:18.

BIBLE PASSAGE: ISAIAH 41:10-14

[10]Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

[11]Behold, all they that were incensed against thee shall be ashamed and confounded: they shall be as nothing; and they that strive with thee shall perish.

[12]Thou shalt seek them, and shalt not find them, even them that contended with thee: they that war against thee shall be as nothing, and as a thing of nought.

[13]For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.

[14]Fear not, thou worm Jacob, and ye men of Israel; I will help thee, saith the LORD, and thy redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.

INTRODUCTION:

The Bible mentions two specific types of fear. First is the ‘fear of the Lord’ which is beneficial and is to be encouraged

(Josh.24:14; Ps.111:10). It is a reverential awe of God, a reverence for His power and glory. It is also a proper respect for His wrath and anger. The second type is harmful and is to be overcome (1John.4:18). It is to be afraid of

something or someone. The focus of this lesson is to learn how to deal with the detrimental type of fear.

OUTLINES

1. Basic Constituents Of Detrimental Fear

2. Consequences Of Fear And How To Overcome

BASIC CONSTITUENTS OF DETRIMENTAL FEAR

Usually, the devil capitalises on our limited knowledge of the word of God and what the future holds for us (Jeremiah 29:10-11). The constituents of fear vary but usually include wild or negative imaginations (2 Kings 6:15

remembrance of a painful past event (Genesis 50:15-18); and a threat of harm (Genesis 20:9-11).

Fear is common among humans. The fear of; criticism (Matthew 26:69-73), losses (Job 3:25), old age (Psalm 71:9), ill-health/death (1 Kings 19:2-3), loneliness (Matthew 26:29), rejection (Genesis 32:3-8), failure/success (Proverbs 30:7-9) and defeat (1 Samuel 17:4, 10-11).

The Bible also reveals the close associates of fear: discouragement (Deuteronomy 1:21; Joshua 1:9); Anxiety (Philippians 4:6); Worry (Matthew 6;25-34); Panic (Deuteronomy 20:3-4); etc.

CONSEQUENCES OF FEAR AND HOW TO OVERCOME

When people live in constant fear, whether from physical danger in their environment or perceived threats, they can become incapacitated. Fear can cause emotional shock which is injurious to our health and can lead to

death (Genesis 32:7; 1Samuel 4:13-18). Medically, fear can weaken our immune system and can also cause cardio-vascular damages. It can cause gastro-intestinal problems such as ulcer, irritable bowel syndrome and decreased fertility. It can lead to accelerated ageing and pre-mature death. Spiritually, fear stifles our thinking and actions (Matthew 25:25). It creates indecisiveness that results in stagnation (Exodus 14:10-13). It puts its victims in perpetual bondage and torments (Romans 8:15;1John 4:18). Fear may lead to failure, pain and destruction of destiny (Genesis 36-10,

Numbers 14:14). Fear creates doubt, blocks blessings and hinders prayer (James 1:6-8)

To overcome harmful fear, you must be sure of your salvation and stand firm in the faith (2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 5:1). Put your trust in the Lord and rely on the leading of the Holy Spirit always (Psalm 1251-3; Proverbs 3:5-4). You need to confront your fears and refuse to be intimidated by the enemy, unfavourable

situations or negative circumstances. (Psalm 27:1, 3; 56:11). Above all, constantly

apply the word of God, engage in spiritual exercises and visualise the way out and

solution through the lens of the word of God (John 5:39; Colossians 3:16). Finally

strive to resist fear and break its hold over your heart (James 4:7; Revelations 12:11).

CONCLUSION: Fear cannot solve or improve but complicate situation. Reject every seed of fear and receive the spirit of courage and boldness (Proverbs 28:1)

QUESTIONS

1. What is the scope of detrimental fear?

2. What are the consequences of fear and the way out?

FURTHER READING: MON: Gen. 50:15-18, TUE 1 Sam. 4:13-18, WED Exo. 14:10-13

THUR: Gen. 20:9-11: FRI Num. 14:14, SAT James 1:6-8, SUN: 2Kings 6:15.

ASSIGNMENT: Identify people living in fear in your neighbourhood and with your new understanding take steps to help them overcome it.