Many Christians I encounter talk a good game, but when things get rough, they fold their tent and go home. These believers mean well, but they haven’t fully invested themselves in following Christ. Like fine china when company comes to visit, they pick God off a shelf and dust Him off and use Him for special occasions—Sunday mornings, Easter, and Christmas—but He’s not for everyday life. Their own wisdom, strength, and power are just fine for Monday through Saturday. But God isn’t looking for Sunday saints; He’s looking for daily disciples.
If you want to improve your relationship with God and conquer your mountain of fear, then become fully committed to following Jesus. Become a sellout, a Jesus freak, a disciple who carries his or her cross daily (Luke 9:23). Be prepared to do what Peter commanded: “Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you” (1 Pet. 3:15). As someone once said, “Get on fire for God, and men will come watch you burn.” How bright is your bonfire?
The Scripture is filled with promises from God. Like with diamonds, all you need to do is dig them up. The only difference is, these diamonds are already cut and polished. When you place them into the setting of your life, they will transform you into a fearless follower of Christ. Here are a few I’ve dug up for you already, just to get you started: Deuteronomy 31:6; Psalm 27:1 and 118:6; Proverbs 3:25-26; Isaiah 41:10; and 1 John 4:18.
These verses are the best faith investments you can make if you’re facing the mountain of fear. Write them on a sticky note and place them on the mirror when you’re getting ready in the morning or on your computer at work. Memorize them and meditate on them throughout the day. When fear attacks, they’ll remind you that the beauty of faith sparkles like a diamond.
Fear often catches us unaware. When we least expect it, we get a phone call at three in the morning or we feel a lump that wasn’t there yesterday or the boss needs to discuss our future with the firm. Fear can come from a thousand different places and times. But no matter where or when it comes, fear always threatens to drown out faith. Don’t let that happen.
When you find yourself staring at the mountain of fear, choose to face your fears head-on and place your life and the lives of your loved ones in the powerful hands of God. There, you’ll find the courage you need to conquer your fear and enjoy the blessed life.
Watch Dr. Jeffress this Tuesday and Thursday on LIFE TODAY. This is an excerpt from Invincible by Robert Jeffress. Copyright 2021 by Robert Jeffress. Published by Baker Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group. Used by permission.
