A number of years ago, I began watching the television program 24. The main character, Jack Bauer, was part of a Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU) whose main job was to stop imminent terrorist threats to the United States of America. The show moved quickly from scene to scene as Jack Bauer and his team eliminated threats.

One of the threats that Christians seek to eliminate is that of fear. Many Christians never experience the peace and joy of Christ because of the paralysis of fear. External challenges and internal strife can often be an assault from our enemy to keep us from living out the Gospel. The good news is that we have been given three specific weapons that counter fear: power, love and discipline. These three weapons must be used in our daily lives.

First, God has given us His power, which is His unlimited strength. As pastors have often stated, “Spend less time to talking to God about your problems and spend more time talking to your problems about your God.” Since God is infinite and omnipotent, then there is no problem you are facing that is too challenging or difficult for Him. The same power that raised Jesus Christ from the dead is accessible to all believers.

Secondly, we have been given God’s love. Often, when we live in fear we move into task mode. We want to work to get out of our situation or circumstance and so we focus on the task at hand rather than loving the people in our sphere of influence. God’s Word tells us that loving Him provides us with the ability and necessity to love other people. Instead of just “getting through the fear” we are instructed to love God and people well.

Finally, God has given us a spirit of discipline. This means that with the enabling help of God’s Spirit we can make wise decisions. We are not forced to act in a rash, hasty or foolish manner. Fear may tempt us to take a shortcut or curtail our convictions, but with God’s help we can act prudently at all times.

May God’s Spirit enable you today with His power, love and discipline.

PRAYER

Dear Jesus. I have allowed fear to consume me. Today I realize that fear may come upon me but I am not a victim of my fears. Lord, by your help today I am a victor and I stand in the power, love, and discipline of Your Word. Thank you, Lord, for walking with me and encouraging me during challenging times. Amen.