What Does Fear Look Like? Thoughts from the Edges-

What Does Fear Look Like? 

Pastor Calvin Cook – May 22, 2025 

Isaiah 43:1 – _“I have redeemed you; I have called you by name!”_ 

I recently read an article stating that one of the most commonly used phrases in Scripture is some variation of “do not fear.” According to the author, this message appears in various forms 365 times throughout the Bible—one for each day of the year. The writer suggested that this daily reminder encourages us not to fear, not to be afraid, and not to be consumed by the things that bring us anxiety. Often, these words are accompanied by promises, such as Isaiah 41:8: _“Fear not, for I am with you.”_ 

During these days between Easter and Pentecost, we have been reflecting on the ways, places, and purposes of Jesus as He brought peace to His disciples in difficult times. Many of us have had similar experiences—moments where Jesus showed up, bringing peace to a troubling situation. But if we haven’t sought or recognized His presence, that responsibility falls on us. As Scripture reminds us: _“God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.”_ (Psalm 46:1, NLT). The disciples certainly experienced this peace—but are we? 

If we claim Jesus as our Savior and have received the gift of the Holy Spirit, why do we turn to other means instead of fully embracing the presence, peace, and power of Jesus? We carry burdens—sinfulness, despair, depression, anxiety, fear—like they are badges we must bear. But these weights should be cast off and surrendered to the One who came declaring: _“I have brought you redemption.”_ The real question is, what will we do with that redemption? 

I know—I truly do—that these words are easier to say than they are to live out. Too often, we settle into complacency in our relationship with Jesus, forgetting that He died so we might experience abundant life. Yet, we should make every effort to draw nearer to the heart of God, where fear has no place and anxiety ceases. Can we truly reach this place in our lifetime? That is a question each of us must answer. 

I just feel the need to pray—to pray through every stage of fear and anxiety, to grow in dependence on the presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit, and to recognize that God is here with us now. Before allowing anything else to consume us, we must first seek to experience God fully in our present condition and circumstances.