How To Send Fear Packing

During recovery… especially in the early phases, fear pops its ugly head around every corner… especially the fear of relapse. So, overcoming fear through Jesus, is of the highest importance.

Fear is one of the most common human experiences. But Scripture reveals that fear is more than a feeling. It is often a spirit that wages war against our peace, faith, hope, and purpose. To live in freedom, we must understand fear’s nature and how God equips us to overcome it.

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1. Two Types of Fear in the Bible

A. Holy Fear (Reverence)

• Definition: Deep awe and respect for God’s holiness and authority.
• Key Verse: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” — Proverbs 9:10
• Explanation: This kind of fear brings wisdom, protection, and closeness with God. It’s not terror, but reverent submission.

B. Unholy Fear (Bondage and Torment)

• Definition: A tormenting fear that breeds worry, anxiety, and spiritual paralysis.
• Key Verse: “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment.” — 1 John 4:18

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2. Fear Is a Spirit

A. Fear Has a Spiritual Nature

• 2 Timothy 1:7 — “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
• Insight: Fear is not merely psychological; it is spiritual. Many times it actually becomes physical in that it can paralyze you. Paul identifies fear as a spirit—one not given by God. That means it has a demonic origin, and its purpose is to oppress, intimidate, destroy, kill, and hinder.

B. The Spirit of Fear vs. the Spirit of God

• God gives His children the Holy Spirit, who brings peace, courage, and clarity.
• The spirit of fear seeks to imitate authority, but its fruit is always confusion, bondage, and despair.

Note: If fear is a spirit, it must be spiritually resisted—not just mentally managed.

C. Characteristics of the Spirit of Fear

1. It lies as it exaggerates problems and minimizes God’s power.
2. It isolates by how it drives people into hiding (see Adam and Eve, Gen 3:10).
3. It torments by keeping people in anxiety and shame.
4. It limits as it keeps believers from stepping out in faith.

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3. The Origin of Fear in Humanity

Fear Entered After Sin

• Genesis 3:10 — “I was afraid… so I hid.”
• Adam’s fear came after disobedience. Sin separates us from God and opens the door to fear.

Fear Became a Ruler

• Over time, people became enslaved to fear: “…who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.” — Hebrews 2:15
• Jesus came to break that bondage.

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4. Overcoming the Spirit of Fear

A. Recognize Its Source

• Understand fear isn’t from God. Try to identify it when it first begins whispering lies.
• Ask: Is this fear causing me to trust God more—or to withdraw in anxiety?

B. Stand in Authority

• James 4:7 — “Submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
• You have authority, in Jesus’ name, to rebuke the spirit of fear.

C. Replace the Fear With Truth

• Romans 12:2 — “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
• Speak God’s promises aloud to drown out fear’s lies by keeping your favorite Bible verses close by in your heart and in your pocket.

Scripture Weapons Against Fear:

• Isaiah 41:10 — “Fear not, for I am with you…”
• Psalm 27:1 — “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?”
• Joshua 1:9 — “Be strong and courageous… the Lord your God is with you.”

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5. Holy Fear Casts Out Unholy Fear

• When you fear God, you won’t fear anything else.
• Matthew 10:28 — “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.”
• The holy fear of the Lord disarms the lies of the enemy and restores proper perspective and Jesus’ peace within you.

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6. Journaling Questions

1. What fears have you ever experienced that felt spiritual in nature?
2. What are some lies the spirit of fear has whispered to you?
3. How can the fear of the Lord help you resist unholy fear?
4. What Scriptures can you personally use when fear attacks your mind?

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7. For Your Journal

Write about a situation where you recognized that fear was not from God. Include: 1) How did it affect your actions or decisions? 2) What truth from God’s Word could you use to replace that fear?

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8. Prayer of Deliverance and Boldness

Abba Father, I renounce every spirit of fear that has tried to take root in my life. You have not given me fear. You’ve given me power, love, and a sound mind. I take authority, in the name of Jesus, over every lying voice and every tormenting thought. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit. Restore boldness, clarity, and perfect peace in me. I choose to fear You alone. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Have a blessed rest of your day