Page 92 - Biblical Counseling II

Fear and Anger
“In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry,
and do not give the devil a foothold.” Ephesians 4:26-27

Connect…

From 2001 to 2006, there was a TV show
on in the United States called “Fear
Factor.” Maybe you’ve heard of it. A man
named Joe was the host, and each episode
had six contestants, three men and three
women. They were competing for a prize
of $50,000, but to win this money, they
had to complete three challenges. The first
challenge was a stunt like jumping from
one building to another or hanging from a
helicopter and grabbing flags. These were
students created by professional stunt
teams, and contestants were kept “safe”
while trying to conquer their fears. The
contestants with the slowest times were
eliminated after the first round. The
second challenge was supposed to be a
mental challenge, like eating disgusting bugs or animal parts. Sometimes it was a pain endurance challenge
like walking on glass. Other times it was a challenge, like lying in a container full of snakes or spiders. Usually,
if a contestant could pass the “fear” challenge, they made it to the last level. The final challenge was an
extreme stunt like those seen in action movies. It could involve moving vehicles, fire, or water. Whoever
completed the challenge in the fastest time won $50,000 (Wikipedia.org). It was a ridiculous yet fascinating
show to watch as people tried to conquer their fears (photo: usmagazine.com).

The Lesson ...

Fear
“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 41:10

In Biblical Counseling I, you spent some time learning about fear. In order to help those dealing with fear, it is
important to remember that fear is not necessarily sinful. We are to fear God. In addition, we should
reasonably fear danger. God has given us the emotion of fear to protect us from real danger. However, BCI
discussed four times when it can become sinful. Let’s review:

1. When you fear people more than you fear God (Prov. 29:25; Gal. 1:10).
2. When you are not trusting in God (Psalm 56, es. 3, 4, 11).
3. When you want control or certainty. These belong to God alone.
4. When fear is keeping you from fulfilling your responsibilities to God (Prov. 22:13).

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