5 Devotions for When You Feel Afraid

By Jordan An

April 28, 2023

We all know what it's like to feel afraid. Whether it's fear of the unknown, failure, violence, or loss, fear can be overwhelming, and at times, paralyzing.

The good news is that, as Christians, we can find hope and peace in God's promises: his Word reassures us that he is in control and has promised to be with us always, even in our darkest moments.

Below are five devotions and Scripture readings that offer encouragement and guidance for the times when fear overwhelms us. Each devotion contains a short Scripture reading, reflection, and prayer to remind you of God's love, peace, and protection, and to help you trust him more fully, even in fearful situations.

Fear
When we face a situation we cannot control, we realize that we cannot rescue ourselves from our deepest fears.

Fears for the Future
Our Creator God knows how we are made and how fear can cripple us. In the Bible the message “Do not fear” occurs some 365 times.

Freedom From Fear
Because Jesus rose again and is with us always through his Holy Spirit, we can have freedom from fear because we are never alone.

No Fear Here
We have the blessed assurance that God is with us and cares for us. We have no need to fear.

Don’t Fear What Others Fear
There are many things to fear in this world. But God doesn’t want us to fear any of them. He wants us to fear only him.

Additional Scripture Readings about Fear:

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." — 2 Timothy 1:7

"Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." — Psalm 23:4

"Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe." — Proverbs 29:25

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." — Philippians 4:6-7

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." — Isaiah 41:10

As believers, we can find comfort in God's presence, even in our most fearful moments. God is always with us, and he has promised to never leave us or forsake us.

As we learn to more fully trust in him and lean on his promises, we can face our fears with courage and faith.

Explore more devotions for every occasion from Today. Subscribe for daily devotional emails on the form below.

About the author — Jordan An

Jordan is a former Social Media Specialist and Marketing Communications Manager for ReFrame Ministries, where she supported our programs through digital marketing campaigns. Since departing from ReFrame, she has held marketing leadership roles in the consulting and healthcare industries. She blogs regularly for Today and other ReFrame programs.

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