When We’re Weak

Have you ever felt completely frozen because of fear? Maybe you were in a terrible situation, or maybe your mind made you feel like things were scarier than they actually were. Whatever happened, you may have found it difficult to breathe, move, or do anything.

Where is God when we feel like fear is getting the best of us? God can feel far away sometimes, but if you know Jesus, He lives inside you through His Holy Spirit.

But if He is right there with us, why is it so difficult to feel Him? There are a number of reasons God can feel distant from us. Often, Satan isolates us in our fear, and he lies to us. He tells us we are all alone—that God is far away. But, the good news is, there are some things we can do to cling to the truth and reject Satan’s lies in times of fear.

First, reach out because you are not alone. No matter what kind of a situation you are in, you can call out to Jesus and rest in His love for you. He is with you, and He wants you to tell Him how you feel (Matthew 28:20; 1 Peter 5:7). Also, reach out to people in your life and open up to them. Let them know about the fear you are feeling—whether you talk to them in person or over the phone.

Second, if you are able, find a Bible and read God’s Word. Jesus has assured us (1) He holds us, even in our fear, and (2) His perfect love beats fear (Matthew 6:25-34; 11:28-30; 1 John 4:18). Use the truths found in Scripture to fight against the lies Satan tells you.

Fear smothers us. It keeps us from moving. Satan wants fear to get the best of us, but Christ has destroyed the power of sin through His death and resurrection. • Emily Acker

• How can spending time with God and His people help you be prepared for times of fear?

• Who can you talk to about the fear you experience in your life?

• If you need someone to talk to about fear or anxiety, you can set up an appointment for a one-time complimentary phone consultation with a Christian counselor through the Focus on the Family Counseling Service. In the United States, call 1-855-771-HELP (4357) weekdays 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Mountain Time) to set up an appointment. In Canada, book your appointment by calling 1-800-661-9800 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) and ask to speak with the care associate.

Say to those with fearful hearts, “Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you.†Isaiah 35:4 (NIV)

Read Verses:

Isaiah 40:28-31; Luke 12:6-7