“… whatever is true, whatever is honourable, 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. Philippians 4:8
If we are really honest with ourselves often coming to the surface of our lives is a nagging fear, an underlying phobia that causes us to be anxious. It may be a fear of ill health, being made redundant, possible poverty, family breakup and on a wider scale, a fear of invading evils that are prevalent in our world. Whatever the fear, it can and does invade our minds and can set us on a course that is contrary to the mind and will of God.
Fear is very real and it loudly demands of us in order to take control of our lives. Even though fear is mostly an action of the mind about what has not happened, its extremely hard to argue and go against such intense feelings. So much so that as Paul David Tripp said; “Fear can overwhelm your senses. It can distort your thinking. It can kidnap your desires. It can capture your meditation so that you spend more time worrying about what could be than considering the God who is.” [Grace Quotes]
So what’s the remedy for the Christian? Can I suggest that we need to purposely and determinedly engage our minds on what is, rather than on things that only might be. As the above text indicates, which comes after the imperative “be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” (4:6) ..our fears need be replaced with “whatever is.” This will drive out any fears and give us hope from God.
John Piper wisely wrote: The presence of hope in the invincible sovereignty of God, drives out fear. [Grace Quotes]