Matthew 2:1-2 (ESV)
Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”
Matthew 2:1 (ESV)
. . . behold, wise men from the east came . . .
Matthew 2:3 (ESV)
When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.
Matthew 2:4 (ESV)
and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born.
Matthew 2:7 (ESV)
Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared.
Matthew 2:9 (ESV)
After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was.
Matthew 2:10 (ESV)
when they saw the star they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.
Why Was Herod So Fearful? What Are The Results When Fear Controls Our Lives?
- Fear is a thief. It erodes our faith, plunders our hope, steals our freedom, and takes away our joy of living in abundant life in Christ.
“Phobias are like the coils of a snake—the more we give in to them, the tighter they squeeze.”
-Dr Neal Anderson
“Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in America, yet many people who have it are suffering in silence and secrecy, inappropriately ashamed or unaware of the availability of excellent treatments.”
– The National Institute of Mental Health
Why Is Fear So Hard To Overcome?
Ephesians 2:1-2 (ESV)
And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of the world . . .
Romans 12:2
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind . .
How Do We Overcome Fear?
- Pray with an honest heart.
- Resolve all known personal and spiritual conflicts.
- State your problem and separate the facts from assumptions.
- Take responsibility for your part of the conflict.
- Take actions that you can take and then trust God with the outcome.