The secret weapon of fear often begins with the thought that begins with “what if.”
“What about this?” and “What if” are the favorite phrases of fear. Each time such words invade the mind, there is a specific intent to bring a mental projection of doom, gloom and failure. “What if I get a disease?” or “What about your low bank account?” and “What if you can’t pay your bills this month?” are examples of this kind of talk. Even when a person attempts to be at peace, fear will slide in with its torment to remind them that things are not as well as they hoped.
Doubt and Uncertainty
Any room of insecurity is used as a window to incite questions of doubt and uncertainty, thus making a positive outlook nearly impossible. The “what if’s” all point to a scenario that can seem realistic to the individual. Yet as folks begin to get victory over fear, they will recognize that the weapons of fear are all simply a spectacle of fireworks, smoke and illusions.
There is nothing realistic about fear’s torment. It is only realistic if we give it that validation. We are only the victims of that which we fear anyway. If fear is allowed in, it will have an increasing punishing effect as the slippery slope of growing anxious thoughts and worries do their job—torment.
The “What If” Solution
Jesus made it very clear when He said, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” (Matthew 6:34 NKJV) Fear constantly broadcasts its propaganda, driving us to worry and fret about the cares of this world. But Jesus promised us a divine peace as we release ourselves into the Father’s care and simply focus on the work of today.
In addition we hear the instruction of the Apostle Peter saying, “Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).
His love and care is the antidote to the torment that anxiety, worry and stress all try to bring into our lives. Notice how both passages deal with the everyday process of overcoming fear?
Jesus commands us each day not to worry about tomorrow and Peter reminds us to continually cast the cares that daily rise up upon Him.
The word cast in this passage does not speak of one action, but a continual practice of daily casting our cares upon God. Just as a fly fisherman repeatedly throws his line out into the water, we as God’s children have the privilege of continually casting our concerns and worries into the refreshing waters of His love.
Question: What ways have you found to help overthrow the “what if” torment that fear brings?
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