3 Reasons We Shouldn't Fear the Future

 by Barbara Latta

To look at the world’s ills, one could cower in fear of what’s next on the tragedy agenda. Not only have we navigated a worldwide pandemic, we have also endured weather disasters, political stress and civil unrest.

But you know what?

This is nothing new. Since the beginning of time mankind has fought among himself, people have dealt with volcanoes, earthquakes and floods. Nation has warred against nation and strife has not ceased.

Fear is the opposite of faith in God. When we fear, our eyes are on the turmoil around us and not on the Father Who saves us.God’s instructions to His people to fear not appear in the Bible hundreds of times. He knew we would be influenced by the world and events around us and our natural senses would default to looking at tragic or impossible situations. His repetition of this phrase is because we need to hear it so much.

When I was struggling with fear of the future God reminded me of these 3 things.

We shouldn’t live in fear because:

1. God loves us. First John 4:18 tells us, There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. Fear drives us away from God and when we are operating in fear it is because we don't have the deep revelation of how much God loves us. 
2. God knows the future and has it well in hand. God knows our future but that doesn’t mean He is orchestrating it. God gave us the power of choice. He isn’t in heaven pulling strings like we are puppets.  We can influence our own lives by our actions and decisions. But God redeems our mistakes and brings good out of bad situations for those who are His children. Romans 8:28 tells us that He works all things together for our good, for those who are called according to His purpose. So even when we mess up, if we will trust God with our mistakes, our future is redeemed. God always gives us hope.
3. In the end we win. Our eternal future is already planned. We may go through some uncomfortable times, but we win. No matter what happens on this earth, it is temporary. Paul called them light afflictions (2 Corinthians 4:17). Paul knew the tribulations he went through were nothing compared to eternity. His eyes were on the prize. He looked to Jesus. If we keep our focus on Christ and His love for us, nothing on this earth can compare to the glory we will receive.  

The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me? (Psalm 118:6 NKJV).

Our future lies in the hands of the One who redeems our sin and mistakes, puts us back together when we fall apart, and gives us more than we can ask or think as long as we rely on His power. (Ephesians 3:20).

Moses didn’t run from Pharoah, David didn’t run from Goliath; Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego didn’t run from Nebuchadnezzar and Daniel didn’t run from Darius; instead they stood firm in the face of opposition and triumphed because of their covenant with God.

God’s Word is more powerful than the strongest army, the meanest villain and the unseen threats that plague our world. When we stand on His promises, we can know they are true, and we are held tight by the most loving hands in the universe.

And with Thanksgiving Day approaching, we can use this time to contemplate the love of God and be thankful that He is the One who takes fear away. 

What can you add to the list of reasons we shouldn't fear? Join the conversation.

3 reasons we shouldn't fear the future (click to tweet)

When we fear our eyes are on the turmoil around us and not on the Father who saves us (click to tweet)