This is a student article written by Andi Luna of Practical Theological Seminary.
Remember the slogan "No Fear"? How does that one little word (FEAR) keep us from our full potential? The enemy uses this emotion to trap us and to keep us from living in peace. He knows that fear and faith cannot exist together.
I came to my first service at StoneWater Church in April of 2018. Pastor Jeremy talked about StoneWater 101 happening later that day and the Holy Spirit told me I was going. I did go, and I became a member that day. The Truly Free sermon series showed me why I was so thirsty and still wandering in the desert. When that series ended, I was in a panic. What now? I wanted more!
I was saved at the age of 12. I had a few experiences with the Lord, but I did not have a true relationship. Fear kept me isolated from Jesus and others. Someone told me that if I wanted to continue the journey with Jesus that I should try the Regeneration Program offered at the StoneWater Tolar Campus. ReGen is a program that helps people overcome their past hurts and wounds. It was a long and the enemy fought me every step of the way. Because of Jesus, I now enjoy peace and walk in true freedom. John 8:36 “So if the son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (NIV)
Here's how I overcame the trap of fear: This past year I learned that in order to truly let God love me I had to conquer the lie of fear. 1 John 4:18 (NIV) says, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” I had to learn how to love myself and realize that I am a masterpiece of God. He loves me so much that He sent His only Son so that I would be saved. The only way I could do that was to really let go of all my past and let God heal me with true love. I was no longer trapped. Jesus set me free from fear.
Did you know that the phrase "fear not" is in the Bible 365 times? God wanted us to know that fear is not from Him and that not one day should be wasted on it. Fear takes us away from God and opens the door to worry and anxiety which steals our joy. 2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV) says, "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of wise discretion.”
God has called each of us to be warriors in His army, and we will need to put on our full armor to complete this journey. The enemy will be fighting us and fear will be his biggest weapon. Jesus can set you free from fear just like me. If fear has trapped you, then open up your life to Jesus. Give Him your past hurts and let Him heal you with His great love.
I can’t wait to attend Practical Theological Seminary this Fall semester. I look forward to meeting everyone on this two year journey. Would you please pray for us to walk in faith and to conquer fear? Better yet, join us and become a student yourself!