What does the Bible say about spirit of fear?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that fear need not rule God’s people, for God gives His children the Spirit’s power, love, and sound judgment, calling them to trust His presence and promises. Second Timothy 1:7 contrasts fearful bondage with the strength God supplies, while Romans 8:15 assures believers that they have received the Spirit of adoption and may cry, “Abba, Father.” Perfect love casts out fear because Christ has borne judgment for His people, as 1 John 4:18 teaches. In trials, believers are invited to pray with thanksgiving and receive God’s guarding peace (Philippians 4:6-7). The Lord remains near, guides His sheep, and is their light and salvation (Isaiah 41:10; Psalms 23:4; Psalms 27:1).
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- 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.
- Romans 8:15 3 votes
For you didn’t receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!”
- Philippians 4:6-7 3 votes
In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.
- Isaiah 41:10 3 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.
- Psalms 23:4 2 votes
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.
- Psalms 27:1 2 votes
Yahweh is my light and my salvation. Whom shall I fear? Yahweh is the strength of my life. Of whom shall I be afraid?
- Hebrews 13:6 2 votes
So that with good courage we say, “The Lord is my helper. I will not fear. What can man do to me?”
- John 14:27 2 votes
Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, I give to you. Don’t let your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful.
- Psalms 34:4 2 votes
I sought Yahweh, and he answered me, and delivered me from all my fears.
Related topics
Go deeper
Ask Explain Bible AI about spirit of fear and get a fuller answer from a Reformed theological perspective.
Ask what the Bible says about spirit of fear