We live by faith, not in fear. 

From Not Afraid by Pastor Craig Groeschel on Youversion

We live in a time where there is no shortage of information. And that’s an incredible gift! Especially in times of disaster, it’s wonderful to be able to communicate quickly, take action swiftly, and connect globally on current events. But when we consume too much information—particularly in isolation—it can leave us feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and alone. 

In a world where there’s a new headline every hour, it can be easy to start living in fear. But as followers of Jesus, we are called to live by faith—not to live in fear. 

Paul reminds us of this in 2 Timothy: 

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. 

2 Timothy 1:7 NLT 

The fear we often feel isn’t from God. When we start feeling afraid, it’s the perfect time to pray. This doesn’t mean we won’t ever feel fear. In fact, fear can often motivate us to do the right thing, to avoid danger, or to make wise choices. But we can’t allow feelings of fear to overcome our faith in God. 

How can we do that when we’re bombarded by notifications about the next big tragedy? 

Here’s what Jesus said: 

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.

‭John 14:26-27 ESV‬

Jesus doesn’t say to not be afraid because we’ll always get the outcome we ask for. Instead, He promises peace because we have access to His presence. Jesus says that peace is a gift. That means that Jesus freely offers us peace every moment of every day. Our job is to accept it. To receive it. To continually go to God and ask for His peace in the middle of life’s problems. 

So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight. Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him.

‭2 Corinthians 5:6-9 ESV‬

So what can Christians do in the face of unknown disasters? We can remember that we live by faith. We don’t live in fear. 

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be ‭with‬ you.

‭Philippians 4:4-9 ESV‬

Pray: God, I find myself so worried about _______. I don’t know what is going to happen, but I know that You are not surprised, and You are working all things together for good. God, help me trust You more fully today. Increase my faith today, Lord. I ask You for Your peace. Thank You for freely giving us peace of mind no matter what happens around us. In Jesus’ name, amen.