The Bottom Line, Ministries Christian News, Articles, & Poetry 
Contemplating my latest reaction to my teenage daughter’s negative attitudes brought me to the realization that my overboard emotional response was rooted in fear. In Matthew 10:31, Jesus specifically stated, ” Fear not, you are of more value than many sparrows.” Jesus knew the danger of giving in to fear. Fear causes us to react in ways that hinder the work of God in our lives and the lives of others because it robs our faith. Since faith is paramount in pleasing God and thereby seeing Him move on our behalf, we need to fight that enemy of fear with all that is within us. Here is what I have learned about about battling fear…when we are tempted to fear we should choose praise instead. It sounds like a surprising solution, but consider this.
Psalms 22:3 tells me that when we choose to praise God He is present. It is His promise. Praise breaks the back of evil (which is how He thinks of fear) and ushers in the power of God’s presence. When I am fearful of something – anything- I am to resist the fear, on purpose, by praising God, in faith, for the opposite thing coming to pass. Our Heavenly Father is more than able to squelch fear and the enemy’s plan between His mighty fingers. So, rather than entertain and fuel the fear-filled thoughts about whatever is bothering you, chose, in faith, to focus on God’s ability to bring about the exact opposite good. He is able.
One option might sound like my simple prayer in the scenario concerning my daughter’s state of affairs. “Heavenly Father, I praise You and thank You for keeping my sweet daughter from being overcome by negative attitudes and behaviors; instead, she can walk in safety and with positive thoughts and behaviors because You have given Your angels charge over her in all her ways. You love her and are planning a wonderful future for her. Thank You. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.” (Psalms 91:11 and Jeremiah 29:11). You have encouraged yourself, praised God for the good He wants to and can do, and spoken life and strength into the soul of one you can about. That, my friend, is a win/win/win scenario. Fear not to test this out for yourself. Let God show you His ability and faithfulness to His Word.
Thank You for this Stephanie.
Your article comes at the perfect time. Right now, I know some people who are struggling in fear. From my young nephew having nightmares to people in fear for their own health or that of a loved one. These fears are haunting them. We ALL have fears (some more than others). and I know personally, that Your suggested method to cast out fear works and plan to share your article with them. Praising God, for His Perfect Love, does indeed cast out fear!