Some days, I walk through life feeling confident and calm, as though nothing could shake me. On other days, fear comes out of nowhere, gripping me so tightly that I feel powerless. Fear is something we all face. It can range from a quiet anxiety in the background to an intense terror that shapes our thoughts, decisions, and relationships.
Psychologists say fear is a natural, adaptive emotion that protects us from danger. But fear can also become an enemy. It can paralyze us, keeping us from taking the steps needed to grow or thrive. It can close us off from others, isolating us from the people who might bring wisdom, support, or love. Fear has the power to spiral us into loneliness, a condition that the U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, has compared to smoking 15 cigarettes a day in terms of its impact on health.
So, why is fear such a double-edged sword?
Fear and Our Spiritual Story
From a spiritual perspective, fear wasn’t part of how we were originally created. As described in Genesis, Adam and Eve were designed to live in perfect harmony with God, free from fear, shame, or guilt. Survival instincts weren’t necessary because everything they needed was provided in abundance.
Then came the moment of disobedience: eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. This choice disrupted their harmonious relationship with God. Adam’s words in Genesis 3:10 capture this shift: “I was afraid because I was naked, so I hid.” Fear entered their lives and ours due to an unnatural separation from God and a loss of trust that He will provide.
I often think about this when I experience intense fear, which feels so debilitating. It’s evident to me that fear isn’t from God. It’s a byproduct of moving away from Him, acting as though I know better, and relying on my limited understanding instead of seeking His wisdom. Fear often comes when I follow in the footsteps of Adam and Eve, thinking I can handle life on my own terms.
Jesus consistently told His followers not to be afraid. This wasn’t just a comforting phrase but a profound reminder of our true identity as God’s beloved creations. Fear is not a part of our original DNA. We were designed to live with trust in God not terror.
Courage and Faith: The Antidote to Fear
Timothy was a young pastor facing the challenges of leading a Christian community during a time of persecution when the Apostle Paul, imprisoned and awaiting possible execution gave him this robust response to fear in 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.”
Paul’s message to Timothy was clear: fear, especially fear of worldly circumstances, does not come from God. Instead, God provides the Holy Spirit to all who are baptized with a “spirit” of:
- Power: The strength to face challenges head-on.
- Love: The motivation to act selflessly, even when it’s hard.
- Self-Control: The ability to make deliberate, courageous choices despite fear.
Through Christ, fear is addressed and redefined. We are invited to have a holy fear of God rooted in reverent awe, respect, and trust, not dread. We no longer need to be enslaved by fear because Christ’s love overcomes it. We can reclaim our original identity, living fearlessly, centered in love, and aligned with God’s purpose for our lives.
Walking Toward Hope
The journey from fear to faith is challenging because the world accepts fear as prudent and part of the human condition. Although fear may be natural, it is also a result of the brokenness in our world and hearts.
Jesus’ steadfast message is that fear does not have to define us. When fear grips me, I try to take this to heart, reminding myself of my true identity in Christ. Knowing I was created and am being held by a love far greater than my fear, gives me the courage to face what lies ahead.
As I slowly transform fear into boldness, despair into hope, and separation into trust, I hope you will do the same. If you are open to it, I pray that today would be the day you decide to take one courageous step toward reclaiming the fearless, love-filled life you were created for.
The Radical Catholic 
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