Introduction.
In our last post, we explored how fear can feel like a personal and physical enemy—a force that paralyzes and keeps us from moving forward. But to truly conquer fear, we must understand its nature, purpose, and origin, especially from a biblical perspective.
Fear is more than an emotion. It is deeply spiritual, rooted in the fallen human condition, and has shaped humanity since the beginning of time.
The Origin of Fear in the Bible
Carnal ungodly fear was never part of God’s original make up for human being. Fear first appeared after the fall of man in the Garden of Eden—and it emanated from disobedience to (sin against) God.
In Genesis 3:10, Adam confessed:
“I heard your voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.”
Before Adam and Eve sin, they walked with God in perfect companionship of love and there was no any form of fear—because there is no fear. But disobedience opened the door to separation from God—and fear entered human nature.
Imagine a child who breaks his father’s command not to touch the television. When the screen shatters, he dreads his father’s return—not only because of the broken rule but also because of the damage done. Instead of longing for his father’s presence, he hides in fear.
This is what happened to Adam and Eve. Disobedience produced shame, guilt, and fear—not because God had changed, but because they had. Fear became their new reality.
The Destructive Nature of Fear
Fear is both physical and spiritual. Scientifically, fear triggers chemical reactions in the brain—causing a racing heart, rapid breathing, and tense muscles. Spiritually, fear arises when we perceive danger, threats, judgment, loss, or the unknown.
Fear is not always about external danger. It often comes from within—worrying about failure, rejection, shame, or even the pressures of success.
It manifests as agitation, alarm, or distress. Whether the threat is real (like a wild beast) or imagined (like the thought of failure), fear feels equally tormenting. This shows that fear is not just a natural emotion—it is a spiritual condition that enslaves the mind.
Fear Passed Down Through Humanity
From that moment, fear became part of the natural human state. It has worn many garments—anxiety, panic, guilt, insecurity—and has plagued every generation.
Just as Adam and Eve hid from God, people today still hide. We fear exposure, judgment, failure, and rejection. Sin and disobedient create distance from God—creating dreadful outcomes. Thus, Fear thrives wherever there is disobedience or sin against God and its consequential distance or separation from God. The farther we drifts from God through sin and it’s terrifying consequences, the more fear dominates.
Freedom From the Spirit of Fear
The good news is that fear does not have to control your life. The Bible makes it clear in 2 Timothy 1:7:
“For God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
Fear is not God’s gift—it is a consequence of separation from Him. Through Christ, you can be free from tormenting fear and live in the peace, power, and confidence that come from His Spirit.
Moving Forward
Fear is real, but it is not final. Understanding its origin helps us recognize that it is not part of God’s plan for us. Fear thrives on separation from God, but faith thrives on intimacy with Him.
In our next post, we will explore the two types of fear: the destructive, tormenting fear that enslaves us, and the healthy, reverential fear of the Lord that brings wisdom and life.
👉 Missed the beginning? Read my personal testimony in the first post of this series: [My Battle with Fear: Finding Boldness in the Face of the Unknown]. (click here to read).
👉 Reflection Question: Have you ever felt paralyzed by fear—whether real or imagined? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Your story may encourage someone else.
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