God’s word offers much encouragement and Bible verses about fear. Are you facing a fearful or frightening situation? Use these verses for when you are afraid and need to focus on God’s truth.
When Life is Scary
Have you ever had the feeling where you wake up feeling good, then you remember something terrible that’s going on in your life and the awful realization of it washes over you all over again?
That’s how I felt this morning.
A horrible sense of stomach-sinking panic flooded over me about a current life situation.
I tend to use sleep as an escape from stress sometimes, but it’s almost worse when you have the reprieve that sleep brings, and then you have your problem come rushing back at you once again when you wake up.
We are in the midst of a move across the country from Colorado to New York, and the irony is I’m not so afraid about the move. While stressful, I’ve been able to handle that.
This fear comes from a situation we are dealing with in trying to access care for our son with special needs.
People in high places are about to make decisions for our family, and these decisions have huge consequences. People who don’t know us sit in meetings and courtrooms and decide what will happen to my son and to us. These decisions will change our lives for the next months and years.
The stress could easily become overwhelming. These are the times I find myself turning to God continually for help.
Bible Verses About Fear
This morning I rolled over and pulled my phone close to look at Bible verses I had been reading last night. These verses have been a source of strength to me over the last days.
I’m incredibly thankful for Christian friends who pray for me, encourage me, and continually remind me of God’s promises. Do you have these types of friends in your life? You need them.
Whatever fearful life situations you are facing, may these verses bring peace and strength to you, as they have for me.
Scriptures on Deliverance from Fear {Free PDF Printable Download}
Be sure to enter your email below to get this printable free.
This list with scripture on worry is included in the Grow Your Faith printables pack.
Click “add to cart” to download now.
$1.99
$0.00
What God Says About Fear
The term “fear not” is stated in the Bible 365 times, which is how many days are in a year.
Scripture verses that contain ‘fear not’ include:
- Isaiah 41:10 “Fear not, for I am with you”
- Joshua 1:9 “Do not be afraid…for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go”
- 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
“What these verses mention, as well as several others throughout the Bible, is God’s viewpoint of His creation’s fear of the unknown or fears heightened by harmful memories of the past.” – Bible Study Tools
What Does the Bible Say about Anxiety and Fear?
The Bible has been a vital part of overcoming anxiety and fear for so many people. God offers us reassurance, hope, and peace in the middle of our difficulty because He is in control of the universe.
God has plans for your life and will bring good from your current situation.
Here are just a few Bible verses about anxiety and fear.
For deeper study, use our 30 day Bible reading plan on anxiety or my new devotion book Fear Less: 30 Devotions for Courage Faith.
“We can confidently say, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?’” Hebrews 13:6
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication 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 minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
“I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.” Psalm 34:4
“Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God.” Psalm 42:5
These verses give us hope and assurance that there is no reason to be afraid or live with anxiety, panic, and constant stress. You can trust God to meet your needs.
What Does the Bible Say about Overcoming Fear?
Once we have learned to put our trust in God, we will not be afraid of things like we once did.
We can be like the psalmist who said with confidence:
“…let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you” Psalm 5:11
Is Fear a Sin?
Feels in and of themselves are not sinful. Feelings are neutral.
However, fear can be sinful when you allow it to take root in your life. It is a lack of trust in God and his provision for you.
According to Christianity Today:
“Peter writes, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). The word, “care” comes from the Greek and means: “to throw up or to place upon.” It indicates that the person who is hauling around a burden needs to actively take that burden and relocate it. The Bible spells out clearly the antidote for worrying. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6). God commands us not to agonize over problems. Instead, we are to rush our troubles, stresses, and concerns to His immediate attention as He’s always available. And as we ask God for solutions, we do so in a grateful manner, showing we trust that He really will answer our prayers. That’s called faith.”
10 Bible Verses About Fear When You Are Afraid
Here are Bible verses for when you are afraid. Use these to bring you comfort, hope, and peace.
1. Psalm 116:1-8
I love the Lord, because he has heard my voice and my pleas for mercy.
Because he inclined his ear to me, therefore I will call on him as long as I live.
The snares of death encompassed me; the pangs of Sheol laid hold on me; I suffered distress and anguish.
Then I called on the name of the Lord: “O Lord, I pray, deliver my soul!”
Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; our God is merciful.
The Lord preserves the simple; when I was brought low, he saved me.
Return, O my soul, to your rest; for the Lord has dealt bountifully with you.For you have delivered my soul from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling; I will walk before the Lord in the land of the living.
Psalm 116:1-8
This verse reminds us during times of fear and uncertainty that we can rest in God alone. God will preserve you despite the trouble you are facing today. I’m encouraged by the fact that I will walk before the Lord in the land of the living.
2. Psalm 27:1
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1
One of my favorite passages, Psalm 27 encourages me because I have nothing to fear. No matter what troubles you are facing in your life right now, there’s no need to fear. God knows your situation and will keep you safe.
3. Genesis 50:20
As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. Genesis 50:20
Does it feel like you are being attacked? Are you frustrated because it seems like other people (especially those who don’t follow God) have it easier or are getting ahead? Remember that God has a bigger picture and plan for your life.
Even if other people mean to do you harm, as a Christian you can trust that God has a bigger and better future in store for you.
4. Psalm 118:6
The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me? Psalm 118:6
The God who created the universe and rules the heavens is on your side. There is nothing a mere mortal can do to you. God holds all things (including you) in the palm of His hand.
5. 2 Timothy 1:7
For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. 2 Timothy 1:7
This verse has given me encouragement during times I need to step out in faith. Whether it’s starting a new ministry, a new business endeavor, or getting up to speak in front of a group, I remember that God has given me a spirit of power. Any fear is from the enemy and not from God.
6. Deuteronomy 31:6
Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6
You can’t out-run, out-give, or out-power God. No matter what battles you face, God is with you and will never leave you.
7. Isaiah 41:10
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
Are you feeling scared and overwhelmed? Remember that God will strengthen you and help you. He will uphold you when you feel like you can’t go on. You can’t do it by your own power – your power comes from the Holy Spirit at work within you.
8. 1 Peter 3:13-14
Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good?But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, 1 Peter 3:13-14
No matter what troubles you face, you will be blessed. Sometimes we don’t see those blessings in the moment, but God is working your situation for good, both today and into eternity.
9. Exodus 14:14
The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent. Exodus 14:14
This passage has been important to me many times in my life. My instinct is to lash out, protect myself, or even seek my own form of justice. Yet this passage from Exodus reminds me that God will fight for me. I can keep quiet and trust Him.
10. Proverbs 29:25
The fear of man lays a snare but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe. Proverbs 29:25
Because you are God’s child, you are save in his loving arms. When I feel afraid or anxious, I remember that Jesus is holding and protecting me. This free guided calming prayer audio is a beautiful way to visualize Jesus’ arms around you.
Fear Less: 30 Devotions for Courageous Faith
Be sure to check out my new devotion book, Fear Less, which includes 30 days of short yet powerful devotions that each take about 7 minutes to complete. Each devotion also includes a helpful video.
Fear Less: 30 Devotions for...Shop on AmazonWhat other Bible verses about fear help when you are afraid? Let us know in the comments below.
More Posts with Bible Verses for Encouragement
3 Bible Verses for When You Are Falsely Accused – There is little else that compares to the pain involved when you are falsely accused. I’ve experienced this several times in my life and felt the heart break involved. As Christians, we know that God fights for us and we have ultimate victory. We cling to these promises during times of wrongful accusation. Here are 3 Bible verses for when you are falsely accused.
10 Bible Verses of Hope for When You Have Physical Pain – I won’t begin to give trite, easy answers for how to cope with ongoing pain, but I do know that God provides peace that goes beyond our human understanding. Use these 10 Bible verses for hope when you have physical pain.
10 Bible Verses for the Overwhelmed Special Needs Mom – Special needs moms – here are 10 encouraging Bible verses to offer you hope, encouragement, and peace.
7 Bible Verses about Trusting in the Lord – Bible verses about trusting in the Lord, including an awesome new free printable and why these verses mean so much.
Pin These Bible Verses About Fear for Later
Grow Your Faith with Helpful Printables
*How to Do a House Blessing
*How to Use an Advent Wreath
*Bible Verse Cards
*more!
Cathy Hooper says
Exodus 14:14 is probably my current favorite verse. Know that I am praying for you and for your children–your whole family, as you go through this. Know that God is bigger than any decision man can make. We can’t always see the end of the story and how our current situations will work out, but HE can.
Lifting you up daily,
Cathy
Sara @ The Holy Mess says
Thank you, Cathy. I rely heavily on Exodus 14:14. In fact, I was in a meeting this week and I wrote it in the margin of my notebook. I trusted God to defend me.
Nancy graf says
I use some of the same verses and a couple others
I know the plans I have for you……
For I am not born to a spirit of fear, but love. Power and a sound mind. Timothy
Praying for u. I know moving is stressful without all the other things you have to deal with. Much love, Nancy..
Sara @ The Holy Mess says
Thank you, Nancy! The verses you mentioned are powerful ones, too. Thanks so much for your prayers.