Emotions & the Bible: Understanding Feelings with Faith – Part 4
Discover More Emotions:
Fear
— When Faith Feels Far Away
Emotion:
Fear
Bible
Example: Elijah Fleeing from Jezebel (1 Kings 19:1–4)
Key Verse:
“Elijah
was afraid and ran for his life… He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and
prayed that he might die.” – 1 Kings 19:3–4 (NIV)
Reflection
Elijah
had just won a powerful spiritual battle—calling down fire from heaven on Mount
Carmel. But right after that victory, a message from Queen Jezebel sends him
spiraling into panic and despair. He runs into the wilderness, afraid, exhausted,
and emotionally crushed.
It’s
easy to think that strong believers never feel fear. But Scripture shows the
opposite: even prophets like Elijah had moments when faith gave way to fear.
Fear
often strikes after a high point—when the adrenaline fades and reality
sets in. Elijah’s fear wasn’t just physical—it was emotional and spiritual. He
felt alone. Useless. Done.
But
God didn’t rebuke him. Instead, He sent an angel, gave him food, let him rest,
and gently whispered truth. That’s what a compassionate God does in our
fear.
Emotional Insight
Emotionally
literate people don’t deny fear—they name it and take it to God. Fear
often signals a need for rest, reassurance, or perspective. Ignoring it can
drain us. Bringing it into the light helps us reconnect with strength and
truth.
Prayer
God,
You see when I’m afraid—even when I try to hide it. Remind me I’m not alone.
Speak Your peace to my heart and give me courage to move forward, even when I
feel weak.
Reflection Questions
- What am I afraid of right now?
- Have I invited God into that fear?
- Am I listening for His whisper, or only
the loud threats?
Action Step
Identify
one fear you’re currently carrying. Write it down and give it a name.
Then pray this: “Lord, I give You this fear. Speak into it. Replace it with
truth.”
Take
one small step forward in faith today—even if it’s just getting up, resting, or
talking to someone.
