Fear

I like to look at synonyms for a word before I get too far into its various definitions. So, let’s first start with synonyms for fear.

Terror. Fright. Horror. Panic. Alarm. Dread. Worry. Anxiety. Angst. Distress. Phobia. Nightmare. Aversion. Awe. Wonder. Amazement. Reverence. Respect.

So, right off the bat, we can see that fear is complicated. From its synonyms, we can learn a few things about fear. Fear can be a noun or a verb. It can be an emotional and physical state. It has to do with attitudes and experiences. It can be internal or external. It carries with it two very different connotations – negative and positive. Fear can lead to negative experiences and feelings or positive experiences and feelings.

It is important to understand the truly complicated nature of the word fear. With the proper fear, one can avoid dangerous situations and outcomes. With the right level of fear, one is reminded of their place in the larger scope of the situation or experience. the wrong levels of fear can either lead to irrational phobias because we’ve allowed it to take control of us or it can lead to the lack of respect for a situation or person. It is important to find the proper balance of fear.

This is even more true when examining the use of fear in the Bible. The Scripture uses fear both ways. Fear is a noun. Fear is a verb. Fear sometimes carries the negative connotation and sometimes the positive. Too much fear can cause anxiety and dread. Not enough fear leads to disrespect and disobedience. It is all about the balance.

So, let’s begin our study of fear.

In Proverbs Solomon teaches us there is good fear and bad fear. So, let’s start with the wrong kind of fear. According to Solomon, whose wisdom came directly from God, the fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe (Proverbs 29:25). Solomon is telling us that earthly fear – the fear of man – is ultimately misplaced. Fearing men over trusting in God is a trap designed by the Devil. If we fear man, more than we trust in the Lord then we are bound to capitulate to whatever earthly demands they make so that we can achieve our earthly safety. But, this is foolhardy. It is a trap because while you might find temporary safety from your earthly foes – you will not find long-term security. Only those who trust in the Lord will have eternal safety. As long as we stay true to God in this world, we will be safe from eternal punishment in the next.

This is not to say that there are not times when we must comply or surrender to achieve our physical safety. But what Solomon is teaching is that if our fear of man leads us to betray or abandon God for our own safety or security then we have allowed it to entrap us. Only those who trust in God when faced with the choice between earthly security or spiritual obedience will be safe.

Do not let the fear of man trap you into trusting in yourself or other men for safety and for your soul’s security. Only God can give you that. Only those who trust in God will be safe.

The fear of man is a trap but those that trust in the Lord are safe. #FearoftheLord