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What does the Bible say about fear?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that believers need not be ruled by fear, because the sovereign and faithful God is with them, cares for them, and has given them strength in Christ. Isaiah 41:10 and Joshua 1:9 call God’s people to courage on the basis of his presence and help. Though fear is a real human struggle, Psalms 34:4 and 56:3-4 model bringing it honestly to God and choosing trust in his word. In Christ, God gives not a spirit of fear but power, love, and self-control, as 2 Timothy 1:7 declares. Perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18), and prayerful dependence brings God’s peace (Philippians 4:6-7).

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • Isaiah 41:10 7 votes

    Don’t you be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. Yes, I will help you. Yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness.

  • 2 Timothy 1:7 6 votes

    For God didn’t give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.

  • 1 John 4:18 4 votes

    There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear has punishment. He who fears is not made perfect in love.

  • Psalms 34:4 4 votes

    I sought Yahweh, and he answered me, and delivered me from all my fears.

  • Joshua 1:9 3 votes

    Haven’t I commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid. Don’t be dismayed, for Yahweh your God is with you wherever you go.”

  • Proverbs 29:25 3 votes

    The fear of man proves to be a snare, but whoever puts his trust in Yahweh is kept safe.

  • Psalms 23:1-6 3 votes

    Yahweh is my shepherd; I shall lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil. My cup runs over. Surely goodness and loving kindness shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in Yahweh’s house forever.

  • Psalms 56:3-4 3 votes

    When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. In God, I praise his word. In God, I put my trust. I will not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?

  • Philippians 4:6 2 votes

    In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.

  • Deuteronomy 31:6 2 votes

    Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid or scared of them, for Yahweh your God himself is who goes with you. He will not fail you nor forsake you.”

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