Faith, Fear and their Relationship
By Pastor Claude Cummings, III
He Heard My Cry Christian Fellowship Church
Matthew 14:25-31
HOUSTON – I have a fear! The name of my fear is Acrophobia. When I discuss my fear of heights, someone in the room will usually raise their hand and quote II Timothy 1:7 “God did not give us a spirit of fear”.
I am often quick to remind such people, “God did not give us diabetes or high blood pressure, but they exist.” Many people live with physical ailments like diabetes and high blood pressure and if these ailments go untreated, they become life threatening.
However, if managed properly, they will not prevent you from living a long and productive life. Fear, a spiritual ailment, if not treated properly is a threat to our spiritual health. The good news is, just as we are able to manage our physical ailments, our spiritual ailments, such as fear, are also manageable.
A display of fear in the eyes of many Christians demonstrates a lack of faith and we know that a lack of faith displeases God (Hebrews 11:6). In today’s scripture as the disciples obeyed the command given to them by Jesus Christ, they encountered fear. Jesus did not rebuke the disciples because they became fearful.
On the contrary, Jesus comforted them when they displayed fear (v. 27 be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid). What is the relationship between faith and fear and how can our fears be managed?
Antidote for Fear
Fear serves a purpose. Its purpose is to remind us to walk by faith and not by sight (II Corinthians 5:7). Oftentimes, we focus on the negative aspects of fear and we ignore the opportunity fear presents to strengthen our relationship with Christ. With that in mind, the cure for fear is faith. As the disciples took sail, their future was uncertain. Although many of the disciples were fisherman, we can reasonably conclude they never encountered a spirit walking on water (they became fearful). Ultimately, it was their demonstration of faith that drew them closer to Christ and calmed their fear. Faith serves purpose. Faith’s purpose is to encourage us to trust Christ when we experience fear.
Acknowledge your Fear
Why should we acknowledge our fears? Christ acknowledged the disciples’ fear. People, with their best intentions in mind, attempt to comfort us by saying things like “there is nothing to be afraid of”. In actuality, fear is real. The fear the disciples experienced was not a figment of their imagination. Their fear was so potent that it captured Christ’s attention. After Christ acknowledged their fear, the disciples were able to dismiss their fear and focus on Christ. By faith, Peter shared with God his heart’s desire (v.28). Out of fear, Peter begin to sink, and Christ rebuked him. An acknowledgement of fear is nothing more than an occasion to exhibit your faith. Fear gives us the opportunity to exercise our faith by focusing on Christ and dismissing our fear (vv. 31-32).
Amount of Faith
How much faith is enough faith? Mustard seed size faith is enough to overcome any fear. If you have molehill fear or mountain size fear, mustard seed size faith is all that is required. If the size of your fear is greater than the size of your faith, spiritual death is inevitable. Possessing the minimum amount of faith meets all the requirements to manage the maximum amount of fear.
Although the disciples were fearful, they did not turn around and go in the opposite direction. They displayed enough faith to obey Christ and follow his command. As this article is being written, the Unites States Government is in the middle of a partial government shutdown. The future for many Americans is uncertain and the result of that uncertainty is fear. Now more than ever, allow your faith to draw you closer to Christ. Even in the midst of our fears, the spirit of God is always present to comfort us.
I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. Psalm 34:4.
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
