And the angel said unto them, “Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. Luke 2:10
God commands us to not be afraid. He doesn’t suggest it, he commands it, over and over in the Bible. Luke 2 is the message of the angel to the shepherds on the night of Jesus’ birth. They had just seen a great light—-scary for a bunch of kids alone at night out in the fields.
Life is scary sometimes and the feelings of fear are part of what has kept humans alive over the centuries. But most of our fears are unfounded and we need to remind ourselves to “Fear not!” It helps if there is something after the phrase. In scripture, God offers hope or a solution to those who are fearful. Simply telling yourself to not be afraid isn’t enough. Fill in the next statement, because _________. This will take you to the heart of your fear enabling you to move on.
Affirmation: I will fear not (when appropriate).
Coaching questions/request: What is causing you to feel fearful? What will help you take the command, Fear Not!, to heart? Say to yourself, fear not, ____________ (fill in with the help that will come, the reality of the situation, or simply I can get through this.)