Fear: A Weapon to Distract Us from God

Author: Ayodeji Oludapo

Date: November 5, 2024

Scripture: "He said to his disciples, 'Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?'" - Mark 4:40 (NIV)

Devotional Thoughts

Fear is a powerful weapon the enemy uses against us, and it is often more potent than we realize. Even those closest to Jesus, who witnessed His miracles firsthand, found themselves overwhelmed by fear. In Mark 4, we read about the disciples caught in a terrifying storm. The waves crashed against their boat, and despite Jesus being with them, they panicked. They had seen Him calm fevers, command demons, and heal the sick, yet they feared for their lives. This shows us that even the presence of God does not automatically shield us from the emotions that fear stirs up.

Fear isn't logical; it doesn’t align with the truth of who God is. The disciples forgot that Jesus, the Son of God, was with them. They let the roaring winds and the raging waves take precedence over the presence of their Savior. In the same way, fear tries to dominate our thoughts and redirect our focus away from God's power and promises.

It's important to remember that fear is not merely an emotion—it’s a tactic the enemy uses to make us question God’s ability to protect and guide us. When we give in to fear, we relinquish our peace and allow our trust in God to be shaken. Jesus’ question to the disciples, "Do you still have no faith?" is one that resonates with us today. He wants us to see that His presence is more powerful than any storm we face and that our fear should yield to faith in Him.

Practical Reflection

How often have you allowed fear to overwhelm you, even in God's presence? Maybe it’s a fear of failure, an uncertain future, or a health issue that seems to have no resolution. These fears can seem overwhelming, just like the storm felt to the disciples. But let’s take a moment to remember that Jesus is in the boat with us. Just as He rebuked the wind and the waves, He has the power to calm the storms in our lives. His presence is constant, even when we are afraid. The challenge is to lift our eyes from the storm and fix them on the One who has power over it.

The enemy loves to use fear to make us doubt God’s goodness, His nearness, and His ability to save. But we need to remind ourselves that God has promised to never leave us or forsake us. We must cling to the truth that the presence of fear does not mean the absence of God. His power is made perfect in our weakness—even in the moments when our faith falters.

Closing Thoughts

Fear is powerful, but our God is more powerful. When fear grips your heart, remind yourself of Jesus' words: "Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid." (Matthew 14:27). Remember that Jesus did not criticize the disciples for waking Him—He calmed the storm because they turned to Him in their fear. Today, bring your fears to God. Lay them at His feet and trust that He is able and willing to see you through.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I thank You for being with me in every storm. Forgive me for the times when I let fear take over, and help me to remember that You are greater than any fear I face. Teach me to trust You, even when the waves of life seem overwhelming. I place my faith in You today, knowing that You are the God who calms storms and gives peace. In Jesus' name, Amen.