GROUNDED: WHAT’S WEIGHING YOU DOWN?

PART 3 – GROUNDED BY FEAR: When Worry Replaces Trust

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.”

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SERMON OVERVIEW

Fear is one of the most common weights believers carry. While fear is a real emotion, it is not a gift from God. Scripture teaches that fear can either paralyze us or become a doorway for deeper faith. This message addresses the nature of fear, how it operates, and how believers can move from fear to faith.

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DEFINITION OF FEAR

Fear is a distressing emotion aroused by perceived danger, whether real or imagined. Biblically, fear (Greek: deilia) refers to timidity, cowardice, or shrinking back. Scripture teaches that only God is to be feared in the sense of reverence and awe.

Key Truth:

Human fear can become an opportunity to deepen trust in God.

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COMMON EXPRESSIONS OF FEAR IN SCRIPTURE

1. Fear of the Unknown or Abnormal

  Acts 5:5 – Fear fell upon all who heard what happened to Ananias.

2. Fear of Embarrassment or Shame

  2 Corinthians 12:20 – Fear of conflict, exposure, and disappointment.

3. Fear of the Future

  Mark 10:32 – The disciples were fearful as Jesus spoke of what was ahead.

4. Fear of Persecution

  1 Peter 3:14 – Even when threatened, believers are not to fear.

There is only one proper fear:

Ecclesiastes 12:13–14 – Fear God and keep His commandments.

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I. THE DIVINE ENCOURAGEMENT NOT TO FEAR

Genesis 15:1

“Do not fear, Abram. I am your shield; your reward shall be very great.”

Reason #1: God Is Our Protection

God assured Abram that He Himself was his shield. Like Abram, believers are reminded that God’s protection is greater than any threat.

Psalm 3:3 – God is our shield and the lifter of our head.

Reason #2: God Is Our Reward

God does not abandon His people in difficult seasons. He promises provision, blessing, and faithfulness.

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II. THE DISCOURAGING EXCUSES OF FEAR

Judges 7:10–11

Gideon was called to act, yet fear lingered even after repeated assurances from God. Despite clear promises and multiple signs, fear still attempted to delay obedience.

Key Insight:

Fear often demands “one more sign” even after God has already spoken.

God’s Grace:

God does not condemn Gideon. Instead, He reassures him again and strengthens his faith.

Common Fear-Based Excuses:

- “My finances aren’t right.”

- “After my children are grown, I’ll serve.”

- “I’m not like others.”

Biblical Truth:

God does not call the qualified; He qualifies the called.

Fear never excuses disobedience.

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III. THE DISABLING EFFECT OF FEAR

1 Chronicles 28:20

“Be strong and courageous, and act…do not fear nor be dismayed.”

Fear can immobilize believers and delay obedience.

David did not tell Solomon to wait until he felt ready—he told him to act.

2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us:

- Power overcomes fear of weakness.

- Love overcomes fear of criticism.

- A sound mind overcomes fear of the future.

Key Warning:

Saying “I’m praying about it” can sometimes mask fear when God is waiting on action.

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IV. THE DEFINITE EXIT FROM FEAR TO FAITH

Hebrews 11:1–3

Faith frames life by the Word of God, not by understanding or logic.

Faith Principles:

- Faith operates from the heart, not the head.

- Understanding how God will act is not required.

- Obedience releases supernatural results.

Biblical Examples:

- Noah built without knowing the details.

- Abraham went without knowing the destination.

Faith requires action even without full clarity.

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FEAR VS. KINGDOM LIVING

2 Corinthians 9:6–8

Matthew 6:33

Fear restricts obedience in giving, serving, forgiving, and witnessing.

Kingdom-minded believers exercise kingdom principles to experience kingdom blessings.

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CLOSING APPLICATION

Fear often causes greater damage than the threat itself.

God repeatedly declares, “Fear not, for I am with you.”

FOUR REMINDERS WHEN FEAR ARISES:

1. Trust God’s Word

  Psalm 56:3–4 – When afraid, choose trust.

2. Rest in God’s Peace

  John 14:27 – God’s peace drives out fear.

3. Apply God’s Word

  James 1:22 – Be doers of the Word.

4. Stay Focused on God

  Proverbs 3:5–6 – Trust fully and He will direct your path.

FINAL DECLARATION:

God is greater than every fear. The victory is already won, and fear does not have the final word.