Fear vs. Faith

Fear and faith cannot coexist. They are opposites. Fear is paralyzing; in faith, there is freedom. Think about it—you cannot walk freely if you are afraid of everything that lies ahead. There are times in our lives where we have to make the conscious decision to step out on faith or let fear hold us captive. So, what’s it going to be?

One of my favorite scenes in the movie, “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” is when Jones has succeeded in overcoming a series of dangerous obstacles in trying to reach his treasure. Just when it seemed he had overcome the very last one, he reaches what looks like a dead end at the edge of a cliff. His treasure map tells him that he must press forward—or in other words, he has to basically step out on faith. With nothing but an abyss beneath him, Jones puts forth the first foot and…lands on an invisible bridge! (Not so much invisible, but to the naked eye, you can hardly tell that the bridge is there because it is so well camouflaged to blend in with the surroundings.) It makes my heart leap every time I think about it!

Indiana Jones demonstrated the principle that so many Biblical figures put into practice. Without any evidence of even the slightest possibility of the desired end result, they stepped out on faith. By trusting in God, they received the reward they had hoped for. In Hebrews 11, we see the great Hall of Faith, with a listing of many of those who pleased God by living by faith. It’s also important to note that a couple of them didn’t see the promise completely fulfilled in their lifetimes (for example, Moses never actually entered the Promised Land himself), but God held true to His promises and generations prospered.

What happens to those who allow fear to control their lives? Well, in the Indiana Jones movie, fear would have prevented him from reaching the Holy Grail. In real life, it prevents many people from achieving their goals. Fear of failing keeps some from pursuing higher education or starting a business. Fear of not being good enough prevents some from trying out for a team or applying for a promotion. Those who live in fear don’t end up in a “hall of greats.” It is faith that can help you achieve reward beyond what you can even imagine.

Although some things may frighten me, I refuse to live in fear—I will trust in the Holy Spirit to guide me and lead me to success!