Have you ever caught yourself wondering, “What will they think of me?” or “What if I say the wrong thing?” or even “I’m afraid they’ll…?” Have you ever made a decision because of fear—fear of how someone might react, or what they might do or think?
I’ve been there. There was a time when I worked in a toxic, abusive environment, and I was afraid of everyone. I could not trust anyone. Every word I spoke, every move I made, felt like it could lead to disaster. Job loss was a constant threat hanging over me.
Throughout the Bible, we’re repeatedly told not to fear people—not even our enemies:
- “Do not be afraid of their faces, for I am with you to deliver you,” says the Lord. Jeremiah 1:8 NKJV
- Therefore do not fear them. For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known. Matthew 10:26 NKJV
- So we may boldly say: “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” Hebrews 13:6 NKJV
- But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed “And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.” 1 Peter 3:14 NKJV
- To grant us that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve Him without fear. Luke 1:74 KNJV
- I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people who have set themselves against me all around. Psalms 3:6 NKJV
And there are so many more references like these—Deuteronomy 20:3, 2 Kings 19:6, Psalms 49:16, Isaiah 51:7, Matthew 10:28. The message is clear: Do not fear people.
So, let’s be real for a moment—who are you afraid of? Your boss? Your ex? A family member? Your neighbor? An authority figure in your life? Should you be afraid of them?
The truth is, no matter who that person is, you do not need to be afraid. Why? Because God has your back.
He promises to deliver you, to bless you, to reveal the truth. There’s nothing to fear when you’re walking in His protection. He’s always with you, and He will never leave you or forsake you.
I understand—believe me, I’ve struggled with anxiety for most of my life. It’s not easy to let go of fear. But when you really stop and think about it—what is there to fear? God has got me. Who better could I trust?
So, I encourage you: whatever fear you’re holding onto, give it to God. Trust He will take care of you.
*If you are in physical danger, make sure you get to safety and reach out for help. God does not expect us to stay in a situation where we are being mistreated in any way. He created us to live, not be abused. (Click here for Part 4) and (Click here for Part 1)
