FEAR FACTOR: OVERCOMING FEAR

Scripture Text: 1 SAMUEL 17

FEAR. This very word may strike fear in our lives. Many of us are afraid of being in situations when we would be afraid. When the phone rings frantically in the middle of the night, when we are about to receive a medical report etc fear intimidates us. We inevitably imagine the worst. How then can we overcome the fears in our lives? Let us learn how David overcame his giant foe, Goliath. I like the acronym FEAR in to-day’s sermon because the very word gives us the key to overcome fear. It teaches us how we can overcome fear with FEAR.

F - Focus on God, not on the problem

E - Evaluate the Situation

A - Act in Faith

R - Release God’s power

Focus on God (1 Samuel 17: 1-11, 23-24)
In 1 Samuel 17 the army of Israel was so fearful of Goliath that they forgot that their Jehovah God was almighty – the El Shaddai. He had proven to them repeatedly by delivering them from dangers and also providing for their needs, yet they forgot Him because of their fear. Fear is the reverse gear of Faith. When we perceive a problem as greater than our God then, fear reigns. It is an insult to God because we are saying that God is not able.

When David went into the battlefield, he focused on God. He knew the battle belonged to God. He knew that his God was a covenant God who was powerful, faithful and who would care and redeem His people. When we are faced with a problem, we should shift our thoughts from our problem and focus on God. We should believe that God is faithful and He would guide and help us.

Evaluate the situation (1 Samuel 17: 25-27; 30-40) (THINK)
David went around evaluating the situation that surrounded them.

T—Is this a True perception?
David tried to get the true picture by asking a few people, and then he also met up with King Saul. We too need to think through, to see what makes our situation so fearful. Can I trust a Christian friend or my Care Group to help me?

H—How honest am I in dealing with this situation?
How honest am I in dealing with this situation? David was skilful with his slingshots, but he was unable to wear Saul’s armour. He was honest with his assessment. When in doubt, we too should ask pertinent questions. What have I got that can help ease this situation? What are my skills, strengths and weaknesses? Who can help me and who are with me, giving me support and love?

I—How can God Intervene?
The pebble that came out of David’s sling and hit Goliath must have been divinely guided to sink into his forehead. The direction I need to take is to turn to the Bible. I will also reflect what God has done for me, meditate and pray and see how the Lord leads me. Like David, we must learn to let go and let God.

N—How nasty can the situation get?
What is the bottom-line of this problem? Will I be able to live through this crisis? If yes, what will happen? What can be done? What cannot be done?

K—What do I know from God’s word about my situation?
The Bible is my final authority on whatever decisions I make. My decisions must be based on godly values and God’s commandments.

Act in Faith
David trusted God in this situation. We need to step out in faith to obey. Do I trust God in any difficult situation? I need to ask God to take over and in humility hand the situation to Him. When He leads me, I should choose His way. Remember that Faith can break the stranglehold of Fear.

Release God’s power through our lives
The Israelites could see the courage, confidence and God’s presence in the life of David. When people see me, can they see the courage, confidence and God’s presence in my life?

Prayer Response
I thank you Lord that you are El Shaddai – the almighty God. I can cast all my cares and burdens upon you because you care for me. Help me to be able to trust you with all my heart and lean not on my own understanding.

- Devotional based on message by Pastor Leslie Lim