The Root of Fear
The root of fear is sin, and we can overcome it by putting away evil and seeking God's favor through His grace and longsuffering.
David Wilkerson emphasizes that the root of all fear stems from hidden sin and iniquity within a person's heart. He explains that individuals have the power to cast away their sins, yet many choose to cling to them, seeking to justify their actions while condemning others. This hypocrisy leads to a false sense of security, as God judges all equally and offers peace and glory to those who turn from evil. By removing sin from their lives, individuals can stand confidently before God, free from fear. Ultimately, true steadfastness comes from a heart cleansed of iniquity.
Text
"If iniquity were in your hand, and you put it far away,
And would not let wickedness dwell in your tents;
Then surely you could lift up your face without spot;
Yes, you could be steadfast, and not fear" (Job 11:14-15).
All fear can be traced
To a spot
Of sin and secret iniquity
Harbored in a man's heart.
He has the power in his hand
To put it away.
Despising the riches of God's grace,
His . . . forbearance and longsuffering,
He continues in his evil way,
Allowing in his own life
What he condemns in others,
Becoming a law unto himself.
He seeks to be God's favored exception
To escape wrath and tribulation.
But God is no respecter of persons,
Judging all alike,
Promising glory, honor and peace
To those who put evil away.
And then he shall lift up his face without spot.
He shall be steadfast
And shall not fear,
For only where sin lies at the door
Is man afraid.
Sermon Outline
- The Root of Fear
- Despising God's grace
- Seeking to be God's favored exception
- We try to escape wrath and tribulation
- But God is no respecter of persons
Key Quotes
“All fear can be traced to a spot of sin and secret iniquity harbored in a man's heart.” — David Wilkerson
“He has the power in his hand to put it away.” — David Wilkerson
“Only where sin lies at the door is man afraid.” — David Wilkerson
Application Points
- We must acknowledge and put away our sin to overcome fear.
- God's grace and longsuffering are available to us, but we must seek them out.
- We must not try to be God's favored exception, but rather submit to His judgment and promise of glory, honor, and peace.