Daily Encouragementنموونە

The original meaning was probably fear of literal physical attack. How relevant that is today, when criminals, terrorists and opposing armies are a real threat. However, the fear of man’s power goes beyond the physical, because it also entails fear of his words, his presence and his influence. And in the case of some, their influence includes witchcraft, with all its sinister implications. Fear of man may be fear of men - fear of any invading army or just fear of men in general - but it is often fear of a particular man, or woman. Elijah was unafraid of Baal’s four hundred and fifty prophets, but when Jezebel’s messenger arrived, he was afraid and ran for his life (1 Kings 19:2-3).

Fear of man does prove to be a snare. It makes you feel cornered, shut in. It has a paralyzing effect. It limits our usefulness and makes us hide our talents in the ground (Matt. 25:25). It shuts our mouths so that we become ashamed to testify about our Lord (2 Tim. 1:8).

How can we avoid the trap? By trusting in the Lord - for such faith is the antithesis of fear, and we are safe in his hands in this world and beyond. “I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more” (Luke 12:4).