Throughout our lives, we all experience fear and anxiety to one extent or another. Sometimes we even experience seasons of fear. But God offers us constant comfort throughout His scripture to carry with us wherever we go.

If you are currently experiencing fear, we encourage you to dwell on the below scripture for when you are afraid. God calls us to store His Word in our hearts for trying times. So, take some time to instill these words to memory and constantly remind yourself of the truth the Lord shares with us. 

Fear in the Old Testament

There are many stories full of war, death, murder, and famine throughout the Old Testament. The books of Isaiah and Jeremiah speak of the fear Israel experienced during the many trials that stirred them into fear and doubt. But God spoke to them, comforting and assuring them that He is with them, He has called them, and He has saved them. 

Isaiah 41:10 ESV

“So do not fear, for I am with you;

   do not be dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you and help you;

   I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Isaiah 43:1 ESV

“But now thus says the Lord,

he who created you, O Jacob,

   he who formed you, O Israel:

“Fear not, for I have redeemed you;

   I have called you by name, you are mine.’”

Jeremiah 46:27 ESV

“‘But fear not, O Jacob my servant,

   nor be dismayed, O Israel,

for behold, I will save you from far away,

   and your offspring from the land of their captivity.

Jacob shall return and have quiet and ease,

   and none shall make him afraid.’”

Fear in the New Testament

While the topic of fear in the Old Testament primarily focuses on Israel as the chosen people, the arrival of the Messiah brought a change in the writing style. Now, the New Testament initiated a writing style that focuses not only on Israel but on both Jews and gentiles. Christ calls us not to fear because He values us, loves us, and helps us through our trials. 

Matthew 10:31 ESV 

“Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.”

Hebrews 13:6

“So we can confidently say,

‘The Lord is my helper;

   I will not fear;

what can man do to me?’”

1 John 4:18

“There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.”

Fear of the Lord

Most of the time, we view fear as a negative feeling. But the Lord also calls us to fear Him. God is all-powerful, infallible, and in control of the whole universe. Why should we fear anyone other than HIM? Take comfort knowing that He loves and protects us! 

Moreover, our fear for Him should instill awe and adoration in us that stirs us towards worship and reverence. Below are scriptures for when you are afraid, but take comfort knowing the only one you need to fear is Him, who is in control. 

Matthew 10:28 ESV

“And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.”

Philippians 2:12

“​​Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” 

The Ultimate Scripture for When You Are Afraid

God is the Alpha and Omega. The book of Revelations ultimately affirms that our fear is unnecessary because of this. Therefore, when you experience times of fear, remind yourself of who fights on your side. 

Revelation 1:17

“When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, ‘Fear not, I am the first and the last.’” 

Read more about anxiety, worry, and fear here!