Bible Question:
What does the Word say about the “fear of the unseen”?
Bible Answer:
There are two basic types of fear: the obvious and the not so obvious or “fear of the unseen.”
Dangerous Situations
The first type of fear occurs when one is aware of a known danger such as floods, hurricanes, earthquakes, war, loss of one’s employment, or threats to one’s property or person. The Bible warns us not to be stupid when we see these types of dangers. We are encouraged to flee.
Do not enter the path of the wicked and do not proceed in the way of evil men. Avoid it, do not pass by it; turn away from it and pass on. (NASB) Prov. 4:14-15
The prudent sees the evil and hides himself, but the naive go on, and are punished for it. (NASB) Prov. 22:3
A prudent man sees evil and hides himself, the naive proceed and pay the penalty. (NASB) Prov. 27:12
This type of fear is obvious.
Non-Dangerous Situations
The second type of fear occurs when someone is worrying about some unknown or “unseen” threat. This fear occurs because someone is just worried for apparently no reason. Some years ago a woman was afraid to open a closet at night. She did not know why, but she was afraid. She was afraid for no good reason. She was afraid of the unseen. Proverbs 28 speaks to this issue,
The wicked flee when no one is pursuing, but the righteous are bold as a lion. (NASB) Prov. 28:1
This passage says that someone who is fearful without a good reason has sin in his or her life. That is, only the wicked are fearful when there is no reason to be fearful. This person has committed a sin, which includes crimes, theft, murder, lies, deception, and a wide range of other sins. This person may be fearful of being found or discovered. But those who are living holy lives will not be fearful. If a person is fearful when no one is pursuing, how should he respond? The answer starts with confession of one’s sins to God (1 John 1:9). The person should tell God what sins he or she has committed and ask Him to help him or her not to repeat the sin(s). The person should ask the Holy Spirit to take control and help him or her to avoid the sin(s). The study “Filled With The Spirit” should be helpful.
Conclusion:
May the Lord bless you.
Suggested Links:
Searching For GodFilled With The Spirit