Fear to Fear
We should fear to fear and trust in God's presence and provision to overcome our fears.
C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of courage in the face of fear, reminding us that God is always present to deliver us from our struggles. He encourages believers to stand firm against ridicule and threats, asserting that our trust in God should outweigh our fear of man. Spurgeon draws inspiration from biblical figures like Daniel and the three holy children, illustrating that God can deliver us from even the direst situations. He warns that the greatest enemy we face is often our own fear, urging us to seek God's help through prayer and to rise with renewed faith. Ultimately, he calls us to 'fear to fear' and to trust in God's unwavering support.
Text
Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord. (Jeremiah 1:8)
Whenever fear comes in and makes us falter, we are in danger of falling into sin. Conceit is to be dreaded, but so is cowardice. "Dare to be a Daniel." Our great Captain should be served by brave soldiers.
What a reason for bravery is here! God is with those who are with Him. God will never be away when the hour of struggle comes. Do they threaten you? Who are you that you should be afraid of a man that shall die? Will you lose your situation? Your God whom you serve will find bread and water for His servants. Can you not trust Him? Do they pour ridicule upon you? Will this break your bones or your heart? Bear it for Christ's sake, and even rejoice because of it.
God is with the true, the just, the holy, to deliver them; and He will deliver you. Remember how Daniel came out of the lions' den and the three holy children out of the furnace. Yours is not so desperate a case as theirs; but if it were, the Lord would bear you through and make you more than a conqueror. Fear to fear. Be afraid to be afraid. Your worst enemy is within your own bosom. Get to your knees and cry for help, and then rise up saying, "I will trust, and not be afraid."
Sermon Outline
- Fear and Its Consequences
- God's Presence Brings Bravery
- Overcoming Fear
- Trust in God's provision and protection
- Remember the examples of Daniel and the three holy children
- Get to your knees and cry out for help
Key Quotes
“Dare to be a Daniel.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“God is with those who are with Him.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“Fear to fear. Be afraid to be afraid.” — C.H. Spurgeon
Application Points
- We should trust in God's presence and provision to overcome our fears.
- We should be brave and not let fear hold us back from serving God.
- We should cry out to God for help when faced with fear and uncertainty.