When Fear Meets Faith

Many American manufacturers fear being sued by customers who misuse their products, so they go to great lengths to provide prominent warnings.

Every year, the Wacky Warning Labels™ Contest selects “the most absurd and silly warning labels attached to everyday products.”

Here were the winners:

The Grand Prize Winner was for a 7-inch decorative globe with the following warning label: “These globes should not be used for navigation.”

The Second Prize Winner was for an electric razor for men with the following warning label: “Never use while sleeping.”

Past winners have included the following warning labels:

• “Remove child before folding”—a warning label on a baby stroller
• “Does not supply oxygen”—a label on a standard dust mask (2011 Contest Winner)
• “Harmful if swallowed”—a warning on a brass fishing lure with a three-pronged hook
• “This product moves when used”—a warning on a popular children’s scooter
• A rotary tool includes the following warning label: “This product is not intended for use as a dental drill.”
• “May cause drowsiness”—a warning label for Nytol One-a-Night sleeping aids

What do you fear?

There are many different kinds of fears, some silly, some serious. Most are more difficult to overcome. Napoleon Hill once wrote that there are six basic kinds of fears people face: fear of poverty, criticism, poor health, loss of love, old age, and death.

In 2 Timothy 1:7, God gives us good news about facing our fears:

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.“

First of all, consider these facts about fear.

Fear is real. Don’t deny it. Suppress it. Or run from it. Admit it. Face it. And work to overcome it. Over 300 times, the Bible exhorts us to “fear not.” Why?

Because our fears do not come from God, what is the source of fear? It must be the doubts the Devil implants in our hearts. He wants us to question God, doubt our ability, and be afraid of the future.

The word “fear” in this text means timidity, or cowardice. We don’t have to cower in fear at the Devil’s devices, because God is greater than Satan! We can boldly approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, assurance, and hope. (Heb. 4:16). God offers this comforting promise.

“Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you,” (Isa 41:10)

Paul provides three reasons to rely on God.

(1) God has given us the spirit of power.

God is all-powerful, and His Word is powerful (Heb. 4:12). The Gospel is God’s power to salvation (Rom. 1:16). It not only delivers us from the Devil’s enslavement but also empowers us, strengthens us, and energizes us spiritually.

Peter said “the God of all grace” can “perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you” (1 Pet 5:10). David affirmed, “the Lord is my strength and my shield” (Ps 28:7). So, Paul would exhort us to “be strong in the Lord…and put on the whole armor of God” (Eph 6:10-11).

(2) Love comes from God.

God is love. ( John 4:8) He’s the epitome of love. We can tap into His heart, imbue His love, and find the calmness of spirit that overcomes fear. “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18)

God’s divine love soothes the soul, steadies the spirit, and provides peace for the heart. The tranquility of love’s character fortifies our faith and drives out our fears.

(3) A sound mind is the result of God’s influence in our lives.

The word “sound”  is related to the word “sober.” It could be better rendered as self-discipline or self-control. Rational reasoning and tranquil thoughts that stem from spiritual meditation overcome fear.

When we think on things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and of good repute, our minds will become disciplined to conquer fear. Meditate on godly things that are virtuous and praiseworthy instead of putrid and vulgar things. (Phil. 4:8).

Finally, remember this simple adage. “Fear knocked at the door. Faith opened. And no one was there!”

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman