Fear As Gasoline

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, 13 for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.                               – Philippians 2:12-13

Fear is a life necessity. It works as an indicator of what is important, or at least what we deem to be important. It also works as a sure sign what we are doing or about to do is from God, for if fear is in the equation, then surely the destroyer of unrighteous fear is close behind.

Fear and faith have a undeniable connection. Fear is said to be the cousin of faith in that no matter how weird your fear is (clowns, anyone?), it is still a part of the family. If you are not afraid before taking on a new project at work, starting a new family at home, or having that conversation at Starbucks, chances are it is not that important to you. Fear is the gasoline of life, it compels us to persevere, crashing through obstacles, or it can set fire to everything we hope in. The latter is a worldly fear Christ condemns.

Fear also tells us what we value often to our own detriment. Maybe we fear what other people think of us. This would reveal a unhealthy dependance on our image. Perhaps we fear not measuring up to some arbitrary standard (me too by the way). This would definitely mean we have a self-worth contrary to that of our creator who has already accepted us. When we can take these insidious fears and replace them with the fear of God and how this terrific drama of a life lived for Him is unfolding, then our faith explodes. This is what it means to pursue our salvation with fear and trembling. It is not fear of failing, but a fear of doing a noble and difficult task.

Today, may your fear accelerate your dependance on God. Go out and crush your goals. The conquerer of fear is with you.