The Voice of Fear #1

'Elijah was afraid and fled for his life...' 1 Kings 19:3 NLT
The Bible says, 'Jezebel...sent this message to Elijah: "You killed my prophets, and now...I am going to kill you"...So Elijah fled for his life.' (1 Kings 19:1-3 TLB) Often the voice of fear comes after you've had a mountain-top experience. Elijah had just called down fire from Heaven on Mount Carmel. Then Jezebel spoke. She didn't use chariots and soldiers; she didn't need to. Her words intimidated him, depressed him and drove him into hiding. Look out! If you listen to the voice of fear you'll be afraid of the next telephone call, the next medical prognosis or the next stock market report. Who are you listening to? Who are you going to believe, God or men? Neither the wind nor the fire nor the earthquake could bring Elijah out of his cave, only the still, small voice of God could (1 Kings 19:11-13). Our fears are often the result of two things: imagination and misunderstanding. Fear causes us to think the worst instead of believing God for the best (2 Corinthians 10:5). '...fear brings with it the thought of punishment...' (1 John 4:18 AMP) When something goes wrong we wonder, 'Is God punishing me for something I've done?' No, fear and faith are present with us every day; the one you choose will rule your life. So when you come up against a fear-producing situation, do these three things: pray for God's wisdom and protection; He promises both; admit your inner struggle-you're not unique, we all battle fear; stand on His Word, for He says, '...I will never leave you nor forsake you.' (Hebrews 13:5 NKJV)