Biblical Answer
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Your Question:
What do I do with the fear of death?
Answer:
Understanding the Fear of Death
The fear of death is a common and natural response to the unknown. Even if one is confident in their faith and believes they will be with Jesus, the uncertainty of the process can be intimidating. The Bible does not provide many specifics about the afterlife, leaving room for fear and apprehension. However, it is essential to recognize that fear is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, the fear of the Lord is the cornerstone of all true wisdom (Luke 12:4-5). This fear is not a fear of punishment or judgment but rather a reverence for God's power and sovereignty.
Addressing the Fear of Death
To address the fear of death, it is crucial to acknowledge and confess it as unbelief. Many of our fears stem from our hearts saying, "Lord, I don't believe you" or "Lord, my desires want something different." This unbelief can be rooted in various areas, such as the fear of physical pain, being alone, or losing loved ones. It is essential to confront these fears and replace them with faith in God's goodness and sovereignty. The Bible teaches that God is willing to woo us into desiring the fear of the Lord, which adds length to life (Prov. 10:27). This fear is not about being detached from life but about being attached to God and His promises.
Finding Hope in the Fear of the Lord
The fear of the Lord is not something to be feared or avoided but rather something to be desired. When we fear the Lord, we are not afraid of punishment or judgment but rather of losing our relationship with Him. This fear is a motivator for us to live a life that honors God and to share the Good News with others. In fact, the fear of the Lord is a key aspect of evangelism and discipleship. By fearing the Lord, we are reminded of our mortality and the importance of making the most of the time we have. This fear can be a catalyst for hope and a deeper relationship with God, rather than a source of anxiety and depression. By acknowledging and addressing our fears, we can replace them with faith in God's goodness and sovereignty, leading to a more meaningful and purposeful life.
Sources:
Edward T. WelchDepression: The Way Up When You Are Down
John OwenThe Mortification of Sin
Oswald ChambersMy Utmost For His Highest
Millard EricksonChristian Theology
Wayne GrudemSystematic Theology
Phil Comer and Diane ComerRaising Passionate Jesus Followers: The Power of Intentional Parenting
Stormie OmartianThe Power of a Praying Wife
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