Freedom From the Fear of Others

"The fear of man brings a snare, But whoever trusts in the LORD shall be safe." - Proverbs 29:25

One of the most common fears that holds believers back is the fear of what others will think or do. This fear of man can prevent us from following God's direction, speaking truth, or stepping out in faith. Proverbs directly addresses this, warning that the fear of man is a snare - a trap that catches us and restricts our movement. When we're more concerned about human approval than God's approval, we've fallen into this trap. If we are afraid of people's approval, God's word says, that's a snare. We won't move when God tells us to move. We won't do what God tells us to do.

Joshua faced this challenge when following the legendary Moses. God said in Joshua 1:2, “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give them – to the Israelites.” Moses had led the people of Israel for forty years. An entire generation of Israelites had died in the wilderness. The present group had known no other leader than Moses. The fear of comparison, of not measuring up, could have paralyzed him.

The antidote to the fear of man (or any other fear) is to trust in the Lord. God said in Joshua 1:5, “No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (see also Hebrews 13:5-6; Isaiah 41:10, 13) God reassured Joshua that he was God's chosen leader to lead the people in this next season.

We have to trust in God's promises. When we truly believe that God is our Helper and Protector, the opinions and actions of others lose their power over us. This doesn't mean we become insensitive to others, but rather that we prioritize God's perspective above all else.

Joshua focused on God's promise: "I will never leave you nor forsake you." This enabled him to lead with courage despite what others might think.

Today, identify one area where the fear of man might be holding you back. Is there something God is calling you to do, but you're hesitating because of what others might think? Remember that God also says to you today, "I will never leave you nor forsake you."

Reflection Question: In what specific situation are you allowing the fear of others' opinions prevent you from following God's leading?

Lord, forgive me for the times I've been more concerned about pleasing people than pleasing You. Free me from the snare of fearing what others think or might do. Help me trust in Your protection and approval above all else. Give me courage to follow You even when it might invite criticism. In Jesus' name, amen.

From "God's Answer for Fear": https://www.joshfranklin.org/media/cr3n4pv/6-god-s-answer-for-fear