Fear is an ancient human phenomenon that has often adversely affected individuals’ and families’ well-being. It is little wonder the Bible is replete with exhortations such as “fear not” or “do not fear.” In contemporary times, fear and anxiety seem to be the ambient temperature as individuals worry constantly. Fear has enlisted powerful allies (e.g., relationship fractures, social unraveling, political upheaval, economic instability, environmental crises, etc.) that converge simultaneously, eroding individuals’ capacity to thrive.
Scripture shows that fear and doubt are the devil’s primary strategies, wielded directly against the family. Research shows that fear wears down the nervous system,1 exhausts the spirit, and potentially renders an individual paralyzed. Families gripped by fear stop trusting, stop serving one another and their community, stop moving forward in faith, and are often tossed about by winds of doubt. This is precisely the enemy’s aim: not merely to generate fear, but to render the family dysfunctional.
It is heartening to know that, amidst fear, doubt and anxiety, every family can find a fortress in the One who created the family. Scripture tells us that God does not give fear (2 Timothy 1:7), yet being the all-knowing, compassionate God, He intervenes in moments of fear. The declaration in Isaiah 41:10 did not promise a fear-free life. It promises something better: a God who meets individuals and families in their fears — a God who is ever-present, active and committed to meeting the needs of every family in His care. Jesus echoed the essence of this promise throughout His ministry, saying, “Do not be afraid,” not because life holds no danger, but because He is greater than every danger. While He does not always fence out the dangers of life, He is a sure fortress, a strong tower (Proverbs 18:10) in every danger. This assurance of God’s presence in all of life’s circumstances is comforting.
As families traverse daily life, the world will not stop producing reasons for fear. But the Creator of families has not changed. He still strengthens. He still upholds with His righteous right hand. To every struggling family, His invitation stands: run to the fortress. He is not merely a comfort in fear — He is the stronghold fear cannot breach. Begin today to find a fortress in God by anchoring yourself daily in His word. A daily rhythm of reading and praying Scriptures retunes the mind from fear’s whisper to God’s declarations. Additionally, seek out nurturing, supportive communities. Individuals and families embedded in honest, caring and praying communities are less likely to be overcome by fear. Finally, cultivate an attitude of gratitude and worship. Hearts that engage in active thanksgiving cannot simultaneously be dominated by fear, and worship repositions the heart before God’s majesty, making every threatening circumstance smaller by comparison.
Jasmine Fraser is associate professor of discipleship and religious education in the Department of Discipleship and director of its PhD program in the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary at Andrews University.