Conquering Fear Through The Power of God’s Word

Fear and uncertainty can hold us back, making it hard to think clearly and rationally. When I feel afraid, my mind often spirals into imagining worst-case scenarios, fueling self-doubt and anxiety. You might wonder, why am I afraid? Am I not a Christian? Yes, but I am also human and experience natural fears like anyone else—fears rooted in past experiences, concerns for loved ones, or apprehensions about the future.

Fear has tried to hold me hostage for much of my life, sometimes preventing me from seizing opportunities or expressing my true self. As a young girl, I vividly remember my father watching over me every night until I fell asleep, his reassuring presence providing a sense of safety. After his passing, my late husband carried on that legacy, offering a similar sense of protection and reassurance.

Through these experiences, and the support of my pastors, family, and friends
The importance of not giving in to fear.
One thing I recall and put into practice is something our pastors always remind us of, “We don’t take our temperature when we get up in the morning; we set our thermostat.” (Pastor Diminick Catignola: Senior Pastor of Next City Church)
This means that instead of reacting passively to circumstances, we need to intentionally set our mental and spiritual boundaries, choosing how we respond and what we allow to influence us. We are naturally equipped with Psalm 91, a divine promise of divine protection and refuge, which we can activate to overcome fear.

Throughout the New Testament, Jesus repeatedly told His disciples not to be afraid. He even addressed the women who went to His tomb and found Him risen, saying, “Don’t be afraid” (Matthew 28:10). Jesus understood that we would face moments when fear crept in, especially amid uncertainty and the unknown.

This Monday, I was scheduled for a lower back ablation—a procedure to destroy nerve pathways causing chronic pain. My family and friends called me faithfully, praying and asking the Lord to grant me peace and guide the doctors during the operation. Their love and support meant the world to me.

I truly appreciated their prayers and encouragement. The amazing thing was, I wasn’t afraid. I felt an inner peace that surpassed all understanding, anchoring my soul amid a sea of nerves.

In Philippians 4:7, Paul describes this peace as “the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,” guarding our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. This peace can only be achieved when we place our complete trust in God. I must confess there have been very few moments when I have experienced this inner peace, but when I have, it has been only when I have completely surrendered to the Lord’s will.

For the first time in a while, I was not afraid. The Lord’s promise to never leave us or forsake us remains true, and I stand on that assurance.

The day of the surgery arrived. My husband drove me to the hospital. As soon as we arrived, a nurse called my name. I looked at my husband and said, “I’ll see you soon.”

As usual, the nurse prepared me, placing electrodes and IVs as we waited for the anesthesiologist. When he entered, he introduced himself warmly and explained how he would take me to the operating room. I smiled and answered all his questions calmly.

As he wheeled me toward the operating room, he paused and said, “You seem so calm and peaceful. This is very unusual. Did you take anything to help keep you calm?”

I responded confidently, “No. My trust is in the Lord.” His eyes showed a mix of confusion and curiosity as he settled me onto the operating table. His final words before the anesthesia came into effect were, “See you soon.”

Friends, this peaceful confidence was only possible through Jesus. I know I am incapable of being strong and fearless on my own—my history of fear proves it. But the Word of God assures us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). We are children of the living God; Chosen and Beloved, Forgiven and Redeemed, Accepted and Loved, Set Apart for His purpose (2 Corinthians 5:17; 1 John 3:1; Ephesians 2:10; Galatians 2:20; Romans 8:1).

Tonight, just 24 hours after my surgery, I can share this testimony because of who my Lord is. Even amidst pain and discomfort, I am not afraid. This pain too shall pass. I recall Psalm 23:4: “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” We will face life’s storms, but He will walk with us through every trial.

Friends, hold fast to His promises. Trust in the Lord’s unfailing presence and guidance, for He is our refuge and strength in every season.

Prayer:

Lord, I thank You for holding me close in Your arms and carrying me through this difficult valley. I am grateful for You, my good Shepherd, who constantly guides me down the right paths, keeps me safe from harm, and loves me unconditionally—even when I stumble and go astray. Lord, help me become a living testimony of Your love, mercy, and grace. In Your name, I give praise and thanks, Amen.