Fear Not: Biblical Encouragement for Overcoming Fear and Hearing God’s Voice
What the Bible Says About Fear and Courage
Did you know the Bible commands us not to fear? In Joshua 1:9, God tells us:
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
This isn't just a gentle encouragement—it’s a direct command. Fear is not from the Lord (2 Timothy 1:7), and choosing to walk in courage is crucial to our spiritual growth and daily battle against the lies of the enemy.
Why Fear and Unbelief Are So Detrimental
Fear and unbelief weaken our faith. They blind us from the truth that God has already secured the victory. How can we face the battles of life if we don’t believe the war is already won?
Think about the seemingly impossible odds God’s people have faced:
One army against five (Joshua 10:5)
300 men against 135,000 (Judges 7:7; Judges 8:10)
And yet, with God on their side, they triumphed. Why? Because if God is for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8:31)
The Importance of Believing God Is Your Rock and Defender
Psalm 61:2 describes God as the Rock that is higher than us, and Ephesians 6:17 reminds us that the Sword of the Spirit is the Word of God. Without believing in His power and presence, how can we hope to stand firm?
Trying to conquer fear without Christ is like jumping out of a plane without a parachute. It’s dangerous. It’s devastating. And it’s completely avoidable when we lean into the One who has already conquered all.
How to Hear God’s Voice Over Fear
Fear shouts. God whispers.
1 Kings 19:12 shows us that the Lord often speaks in a still, small voice—but when fear is loud in our lives, it can drown out that whisper. That’s why learning to recognize God’s voice is essential.
The more time we spend in His Word, the more familiar His voice becomes. Just like recognizing the voice of a loved one, we begin to pick up on the nuances of His Spirit—gentle, reassuring, and full of truth.
The Key to Intimacy with God: Meditating on His Word
Before God commanded Joshua not to fear, He gave him this instruction:
“Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.” (Joshua 1:8)
This is the blueprint for spiritual intimacy:
Keep the Word on your lips
Meditate on it day and night
Walk in obedience
The more you internalize Scripture, the more God’s truth becomes louder than your fear.
Reflection Questions
What struggles has God helped you overcome in your life?
What does your Bible study time currently look like?
How can you incorporate Scripture more intentionally into your daily rhythm?
Prayer for Overcoming Fear
Oh Conquering Christ,
Thank You for overcoming the troubles of this world (John 16:33). When fear and anxiety rise up, help me to seek and depend on You. Teach me to recognize Your voice in the stillness. Let Your Word be louder than the lies. In Your holy name, I pray and praise. Amen.
More Scripture for Strength in Spiritual Warfare
Judges 7 – God uses 300 men to defeat thousands
Psalm 61 – A cry for help to the Rock who is higher
Romans 8:31 – If God is for us, who can be against us?
Ephesians 6:17 – Take up the sword of the Spirit
Joshua 1:8–9 – Meditate on the Word; do not be afraid
Final Encouragement: Read, Recite, Remember
Let’s be women of the Word—who read and reread, recite and remember the loving truth of our One True King. When fear rises, let faith rise higher.
Meet the Author
Maddie Miller
Maddie Miller is a lover of all things creative. Both art-making and writing stir her soul and ignite her heart, to the point where her naturally-serious self is grinning like a little kid. Inspired by the Creator of all, she aims to share Christ's light and love through her books, blog, and artwork.
Aside from being a Daughter of Delight writer, she spends her time painting, doodling, and adding to her list of self-published titles (two books are currently in progress!). To learn more about Maddie's various creative endeavors, you can visit www.handiworksbymaddie.com or connect with her on Instagram here.
