Saying YES to Love and NO to Fear: Part 2

Scriptures and holy books may be used for both good and evil. We see the words from sacred texts of different faiths and traditions being used to justify hatred and killing and to instill fear and even push followers toward violent action. But these same texts also inspire goodness, holiness, love, grace and peace. So what are we to believe?

The Christian Scriptures have a lot to say about fear. The words “fear not” appear throughout the Bible. These are a few of the scriptures I turn to when facing fear.

Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. — Luke 12:32

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. –– 2 Timothy 1:7

For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. — Romans 8:15

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. — 1 John 4:18

⁶Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? ⁷But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows. — Luke 12:6-7

Hebrews 13:5-6 King James Version (KJV) Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. ⁶So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

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. — Isaiah 41:10

Ye shall not fear them: for the Lord your God he shall fight for you. — Deuteronomy 3:22

And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. — Matthew 8:26

And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? — Mark 4:40

And finally… whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. — Philippians 4:8

I used Bible Gateway to search for these scriptures because it is easier, quicker and more reliable than counting on my memory or using a concordance. These should all be King James Version (just because I love the beauty of the language).

Please take a minute to visit Espirational Faith and read Bob’s beautiful poem I AM.