MCB CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- Our emotions can be a powerful motivator in our decisions and actions. The emotion of fear is often defined as an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone, a group or something is dangerous that may cause pain or destruction of something. Fear can overwhelm and cause one to run away from a situation or avoid it. Often times it prevents people from doing what is right. They can be afraid of what others may think or how they will respond.
In story of King Saul in 1 Samuel, we find that King Saul is often motivated by his fear of what others think or what they may do. God had given him a task to complete; yet he did not complete it. When confronted with his failure to obey God by the prophet Samuel, King Saul replied, “Yes, I have sinned. I have disobeyed your instructions and the Lord’s command, for I was afraid of the people and did what they demanded” (1 Samuel 15:24). Due to King Saul’s disobedience, he lost the friendship and guidance of Samuel, the blessing of God and eventually the kingdom.
When you and I allow fear to dictate what we should or should not do we can miss opportunities to promote good and relationships with people that truly care for us. For example, if we choose to ignore a discrepancy in our work knowing the effect of acknowledging it would cause the whole workplace to work overtime, then we are motivated by fear of how others will react. Our fear of how others will react often prevents us from bringing to light things that could have greater long term effects.
For those that believe in God, there is a sense of reliance that God is in control, all we have to do is trust in Him. 2 Timothy 1:7 states, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” God will give you and me the ability to overcome our fears through our faith in Him. God will then give us power, love and self-discipline to do what is good, right and just. The story of David and Goliath is a great example of God giving someone courage to overcome fear to bring about a great victory not just in their life but for those around them as well.
There are many things occurring in the world that we could be afraid of. We could continue to be afraid of the war, sickness and the opinion of others; or, make the decision to trust in God knowing He is giving us the power, love and self-discipline to do what is right/good for greater positive and lasting impact.
The Chaplain’s Corner covers everything faith related. Facts not attributed are purely the opinion of the writer.