What Does the Bible Say About Fear?

'Do not fear' appears 365 times in the Bible — one for every day. But Scripture also honors 'the fear of the Lord.' These verses distinguish both.

15 verses·4 eras·5 promises

Exile (~586 BC)

Don't you be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. Yes, I will help you. Yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness.
Isaiah 41:10· YahwehPromise

Life of Jesus (~30 AD)

But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Therefore don't be afraid. You are of more value than many sparrows.
Luke 12:7· JesusPromise
The angel said to them, "Don't be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be to all the people.
Luke 2:10· AngelPromise

Early Church (~50 AD)

For God didn't give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.
2 Timothy 1:7· PaulPromise
But Peter and the apostles answered, "We must obey God rather than men.

United Kingdom (~1000 BC)

You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the arrow that flies by day;
Psalms 91:5· unknownPromise
Yahweh is on my side. I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Yahweh is my light and my salvation. Whom shall I fear? Yahweh is the strength of my life. Of whom shall I be afraid?
I will give thanks to you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful. My soul knows that very well.
Psalms 139:14· DavidPrayer
Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who hope in Yahweh. By David. A contemplative psalm.
Wait for Yahweh. Be strong, and let your heart take courage. Yes, wait for Yahweh. By David.
The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of wisdom. All those who do his work have a good understanding. His praise endures forever!
The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of knowledge; but the foolish despise wisdom and instruction.

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