There is much confusion lately in understanding fear. Fear comes in two basic forms. First, the ugly side of fear. This side of fear controls by intimidation, retribution and ruin. When people fear something or someone in this manner they bend their own principles and beliefs in hope of avoiding catastrophe and achieving mere survival. Actions typical here include lying, cheating and theft. In other words, ignoring truth and reality in order to achieve a desired end goal, or avoid the honest work that would otherwise be required. The goals found here are short-lived and very temporary. An often heard statement would be, “I deserve it, even though I did not earn it.” Or, “If I don’t do as ‘they’ say, I will lose…” God says, “Hear me, you who know what is right, you people who have my law in your hearts; Do not fear the reproach of men or be terrified by their insults.” (Isaiah 51:7).
The second side of fear is found in the beautiful form also known as respect and honor. Here, people understand the love and provision offered as for their real benefit. Psalm 2:11 tells us to, “Serve the Lord with fear…”” However, the results now include blessings, purity and true knowledge (Psalm 19:9; 111:10; 128:1). This fear respects and embraces the reality and love of God for us. It replaces threat of ruin with the blessings of the Lord. It replaces evil desires with the holy desires of God (Psalm 37:4). If God gives the desires, then they are His holy desires.
In the May 2021 edition of WND’s monthly Whistleblower magazine, no less than seventeen or so examples are enumerated that the current Biden administration has been using to rule and govern through the ugly side of fear. Editor David Kupelian writes, “Team Biden has done its very best to keep Americans in a constant state of fear and confusion.” As an example, he highlights the use of the magic word COVID. “…the Biden administration and the Democrat-controlled Congress are pushing astronomical spending bills, the Democrat-socialist wish lists, and a never-ending stream of perverse, reckless, revolutionary, unconstitutional, corrupt and just plain stupid initiatives.”[1]
Another consequence of all of these policies is now raising its ugly head. The glut or need for workers is being seen throughout the country as businesses have jobs to offer, but a workforce that is unwilling to work. Greed and laziness are part of this. People are opting to stay at home and collect “free money” from the government rather than go back to work and earn respectable wages. “I can collect more by doing nothing” is a common phrase. This philosophy not only promotes laziness and greed, but it also supports the notion that higher minimum wages are expected and deserved.
As Christians it is needful for us to be willing to stand against the ugly side of fear and stand in respect and honor of that which God offers. Psalm 147:11 tells us that, “the Lord delights in those who fear Him.” Further, Isaiah writes, “In righteousness you will be established: Tyranny will be far from you; you will have nothing to fear…Terror will be far removed; it will not come near you…whoever attacks you will surrender to you.” (Isaiah 54:14-15).
Be encouraged that the Lord drives out fear (1 John 4:18). And, “Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in His ways. You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours.” (Psalm 128:1).
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