Fear feels dreadful. It sucks the life out of the soul, curls us into an embryonic state, and drains us dry of contentment. When fear shapes our lives, safety becomes our god. When safety becomes our god, we worship the risk-free life. The fear-filled cannot love deeply; love is risky. They cannot give to the poor. No wonder Jesus wages such a war against fear.
Jesus says, “Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom” (Luke 12:32 NKJV). The gospels list some 125 Christ-issued imperatives. Twenty-one urge us to “not be afraid” or “not fear” or “have courage” or “take heart” or “be of good cheer.” If quantity is any indicator, Jesus takes our fears seriously.
