In this reflection, I talk about “fear,” which is the second in our series as we look at four Biblical words that begin with the letter “F.” 

Read the first article, which was on faith, here. 

The scripture we’re using for our reflection comes from Luke 12:4-9. 

 

 

The Context

 

 

Luke 12 talks primarily about fear and anxiety (see verses 4 through 34). It opens, however, with Jesus warning the people to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees (verses 1 through 3). 

He encourages people to be genuine in their love of God that they live out their faith on a daily basis, unlike the religious leaders. 

The two primary themes in this chapter are fear and anxiety (verses 4 through 12, and 22 through 34). The point Jesus is making is that things will happen to us, but we don’t have to let fear and anxiety take over us. 

That’s what we will focus on in this reflection. 

The rest of Luke 12 talks about the last days, and how to be ready for them. It also states how to interpret time and settle unresolved businesses with people (verses 49 through 59). 

 

 

The Sources of Fear

 

 

According to Luke, Jesus talks about the primary sources of fear. First, he states that fear can come from those who can kill the body (see verse 4). 

When you think of who can kill the body, sometimes, it’s not a who, but a “what.” 

Therefore, anything that can affect us physically, mentally, and emotionally will represent a source of fear. 

So, this is a long list of possible sources of fear: accident, cancer or any illness that doesn’t have a cure yet, and more. 

The idea of knowing the outcome of a process. And, this could be anything in life: waiting for lab results, a phone call from an employer, etc. 

What to eat, to wear, or the kind of future we want to have can become a source of fear. 

 

 

How to Handle Fear

 

 

Now the question is: “is there a way to get rid of fear?” 

No, and because fear is our human response to all of the unknowns we may encounter or situations where we feel we’ve lost control of things (including life and our future). 

What Jesus is saying, instead, is to choose to fear God. 

Read these verses,

I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. Luke 12:4-5. 

Fear of God who has more power than anyone or anything is what Jesus is suggesting to us today. 

Here’s what the Bible says about that, 

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. (Proverbs 9:10). 

And, wisdom means that God gives you the ability to discern your inner qualities and relationships. You also have good sense and judgment. Last, you gain some sense of clarity knowing that whatever you go through, God will help you get to the other safely. 

 

 

You are of the Greatest Value in God’s Eyes

 

 

The reason why the fear of God is what we all should have is that God watches over us as a result of our greatest value in God’s eyes. 

Jesus tells us, based on Luke 12 (verses 6-7), saying: 

Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

In a way, I think Jesus was reminding the people then, just as is reminding us today, saying: “the only creature to be made in God’s image is you.” 

Re-read Genesis 1:26, “let us make man in our image.” 

God, because of His love for you, will do whatever it takes to make sure nothing or no one harms you. So, do not fear anybody or anything, but fear God. 

God is the only one who can do the following: 

• God has redeemed you (see 1 Peter 1:18)
• God has given you a name: purpose, meaning, honor, and favor. 
• God has welcomed you into a new place, family, and Kingdom. 

 

 

In Conclusion

It’s ok to be in fear. But, you don’t want to let fear take over your life. Choose to fear God, which is the only type of fear Jesus encourages us to have. The fear of God will rule over every aspect of who you are. You are always of the greatest value in God’s eyes.