Fear is a gift that alerts us to danger. When kept in check, fear facilitates our survival and serves to protect us.
But fear can also paralyze us spiritually, emotionally and physically if we give in to it.
Christ desires us to master our fears in the face of danger. But Christ also instructs us not to respond in ways that harm others. I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. Be wary as serpents and harmless as doves. (Matthew 10:16)
In a world preoccupied with physical danger, Christ teaches that the only thing we need fear is spiritual death. Don’t be afraid of those who can kill only your bodies — but can’t touch your souls! Fear only God who can destroy both soul and body in hell. (Matthew 10:28)
My 2018 New Year’s resolution is to master my fears and submit to my faith in God. With God’s grace, I will be able to do so.
