What Scriptures Can Help Me Avoid Fear And Worst-Case Scenario Thinking?
Q: I read in my Bible that we are meant to have no fear of bad news, but my mind automatically behaves as if the worst-case scenario is the most likely. What scriptures should I meditate on?
A: First of all, I think you and I might be a little bit alike in this case. I often think about the worst-case scenario, but maybe not in the same way you do. When I think about the worst-case scenario, I like to pause for a minute and say, “The Lord will be with me in that. If God will be with me in the worst, then I think I can handle if it’s not so bad.” Maybe that’s the way to spin it. If you’re drawn to think about the worst-case scenario, then remember that God will be with you even in the worst case. And often, it ends up being not so bad. It’s all the better when can see God moving in and through that occasion.
Let me give you some passages of Scripture. Look up the word tower as it’s used in the Psalms. The Psalmists repeatedly use the example of a tower to represent God’s refuge and protection. Take a look at the passages in the Psalms that speak of God as being our tower. As you do, meditate on them and say, “Lord, You are my refuge. You are my strong tower. You are the place where I find protection. Even if the worst-case scenario were to happen, Lord, You still remain my tower and my refuge.”
Another passage for you to consider is Philippians 4:8 – Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy–meditate on these things. I think that’s a great encouragement for each and every one of us.